Christy L. Rinker

Christy L. Rinker, 66, of Newark, Ohio, passed away August 5, 2025, surrounded by her loving family at her home. She was born March 18, 1959, in Muncie, Indiana.

Christy was a school bus driver with North Fork Local Schools for over 20 years until her retirement last year.

She enjoyed baking, gardening, and shopping online but most importantly spending time outside on the farm with her dogs or days fishing on the boat with her husband and grandkids.

She is survived by the love of her life and best friend, Darrell F. Rinker; children, Lucas (Kelly) Reese, Nathan Reese, April (Ben) Terrill, Angie (Jason) Treadway, Darin (Bob) Rinker-Scarffol, and Franklin (Rachel) Rinker; grandchildren, Luciana, Sullivan, Rosie, Alexi, Kyler, Kalleigh, and Kavin, Addie, Spencer and Caleb. brothers, David (Faith) Wallace, Bill (Lisa) Wallace, and John Wallace, and several nieces and nephews. Very special and dear friends, Deb (Ron) Osborne and Terri Glassburn.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Joyce Dye Wallace; son, Kyle J. Reese; granddaughter, Jasey P. Treadway; brother, James Wallace, and grandparents, "Mimi" and "Dad".

Christy was a loving mother/stepmom and was always there when she was needed. A supporting wife, she never stopped loving or gave up, always by Darrell's side, they were each other's best friend. A huge animal lover, you could always find her posting her animals online or rambling on about them in person and she was always quick to rescue or adopt any animal she could.

Christy's biggest achievement in life was being a grandma. The love she had for them was undeniable, and each one had a very special place in her heart. The guidance and support she gave them never went unnoticed. She taught them how to bake, many times baking cookies or making buckeyes. She made the best cinnamon rolls! Many summers spent swimming in the pool on the farm with them. She spent numerous years as their bus driver, which they thought was the best thing ever. She would attend sporting events, take them on road trips and always listened and gave them the most honest advice possible. Such an important piece of our family, we will miss forever. She was a true definition of a remarkable grandma.

As per Christy's wishes, cremation will be arranged. There will be no memorial services or visitation hours, but a tribute to her life will be held at a later date. More information will be posted at that time, and all who knew her and loved her are cordially invited to attend.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Nevus Outreach, in loving memory of Christy's son Kyle, or to the Licking County Humane Society, acknowledging her deep love for dogs and cats.