Alice Wentz

Alice F. Wentz, a cherished matriarch, passed away peacefully at her home on October 7, 2025, leaving behind a legacy rich in love, laughter, and resilience. Born on July 6, 1944, in Wellston, Ohio to the late Frank "Hank" and Audra (Pittenger) McPheters, Alice's journey through life was marked by her deep faith in God, a spirit that never wavered in the face of life's challenges, and an unwavering commitment to her family.

Alice began her vocational journey as a beautician and later lent her skills to the administrative department at Coshocton County Memorial Hospital. However, it was her dedication to babysitting that truly showcased her nurturing heart. Starting in the early 1980s and continuing until 2016, Alice opened her home to numerous children, including those of many local teachers. Among them were her beloved granddaughters, Jaedyn and Jorryn.

Alice graduated from West Lafayette High School in 1962. She then attended Ohio State School of Cosmetology, taking her State Boards on the day President John F. Kennedy was assassinated. Her education laid the foundation for a career characterized by love and service to others. She played an integral role in her community, joining the Pandorian Club where she formed friendships that would last a lifetime.

Family traditions were the cornerstone of Alice’s life. She took great joy in hosting gatherings for Christmas Eve and Thanksgiving, where her warm hospitality made every event memorable. Most weekends in the fall were marked by spirited cheer as she watched the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Pittsburgh Steelers, showcasing her unwavering allegiance as a lifelong fan. Her pride extended to watching her grandchildren and great-grandchildren play sports—a testament to her dedication as a grandma and great-grandma, lovingly known as "Gigi".

Alice was an avid cook who enjoyed experimenting with new recipes, along with collecting and reading cookbooks. Her creativity blossomed in making Halloween costumes for her children and crafting decorations for Vacation Bible School at West Lafayette United Methodist Church. A lover of country music, she was a huge fan of Ronnie McDowell and celebrated many joyous moments attending his concerts. Additionally, she entertained herself by playing WordScapes on her tablet, a game that brought her much joy despite the fact that technology was often not her friend, resulting in many phone calls to her “family tech support team,” asking for assistance. The family often teased her about the number of times they had to troubleshoot and fix her tv and tablet. Of course their teasing was met with a witty reply since she was always unprovoked by their loving taunts.

Throughout her life, Alice faced numerous medical obstacles and heartbreaking losses, including the passing of her husband, Gene Wentz, and her son, David Wentz, within a short span of 19 months. However, her strength and resilience shone brightly, evidenced by her positive attitude and the nurturing bond she maintained with her family. Her profound impact will be felt by her daughters, Wendy (Rich) Beamer and Julie Wentz, alongside her daughter-in-law, Tracy (Wentz) Jones. The warmth of her love will live on through her granddaughters, Tayler Wentz, Jaedyn (Dallas) Allen, and Jorryn Wentz; and her grandsons, Ryan McQuiston and Skylor McQuiston. Alice was also a proud great-grandmother to Braydon Lonergan, Waylon McQuiston, Sawyer McQuiston, and Kohen Allen.

Alice will be dearly missed by her brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Cheryl and Mike Wilson, Carole and Rex Dusenberry, Susie and Steve Storm, and Paula Wentz. Her numerous nieces and nephews will also treasure the memories of their “Aunt Ally.”

In addition to her parents, husband, son, and in-laws (Victor and Marjorie Wentz), she was surely greeted in Heaven by her sister-in-law Ruth Anne Wentz, brothers-in-law, Larry Wentz and Bill Wentz, along with her special companion, Bob Hawk.

Alice’s life was a tapestry woven with the threads of family, friendships, and faith. She was a dedicated member of the West Lafayette United Methodist Church and volunteered in many capacities. Her proudest accomplishments included being crowned the West Lafayette Homecoming Senior Queen in 2007 and her compassionate service to her community, particularly through volunteering at West Lafayette United Methodist Church where she assembled Blessing Bags for Ridgewood students.

As we gather to honor her memory, let us remember a woman whose life was a beacon of love. Alice leaves behind a legacy of family that was everything to her, and her spirit will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Friends may call at the West Lafayette United Methodist Church, 120 W. Union Ave, West Lafayette on Saturday October 18, 2025, from 10:00 AM -12:00 PM, where a memorial service will begin at 12:00 PM Noon with Pastor John Branley officiating. Interment will follow in Fairfield Cemetery, West Lafayette.

The family would like to thank Interim Hospice for such kind and caring support, as well as Alice's many devoted friends who spent countless hours by her side.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to West Lafayette United Methodist Church, designated for the Blessing Bag ministry.