Bethanne Witt

Bethanne Zimmerman Witt, 72, of Hilliard, Ohio passed away peacefully into the loving arms of Jesus on September 15, 2025. She is now living the fullness of the hope and faith she so passionately nurtured in her family and faithfully shared with countless others throughout her life of ministry and service. Her legacy is one of unwavering faith, compassion, and the quiet strength of a life lived for others.

Bethanne was preceded in death by her parents, Benjamin and Miriam Zimmerman. She is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband, Greg, and her children - Rachel (Kyle), Taylor (Anna), and Jeremy (Lindi). She also leaves behind five beloved grandchildren- Luke, Avery, Hayden, Benjamin and Hattie, and one joyful expectation for 2026, Margot Beth.

Others deeply mourning her loss are her precious sister and confidant, Kathy Zimmerman Raines, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, an aunt, nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends.

Bethanne graduated from Upper Arlington High School in 1971 and then studied special education at Bowling Green State University. Prior to marriage, she completed a Master's in Religion degree from Asbury Theological Seminary. A passion for education was woven throughout her life. She began her career in school teaching, poured herself into the training of her own children, and continued to share her love for students as a home health tutor and substitute teacher in later life.

Bethanne's passion for ministry and investing in people was unmistakable, even though she often preferred to serve behind-the-scenes. She faithfully gave her time and heart to women's Bible studies, prayer groups, children and youth ministries, overseas mission trips, and most recently, her work with homeless women through Freedom Collective. Through encouragement heartfelt wisdom, scripture, and steadfast prayer, Bethanne poured into the lives of others in ways that left a lasting impact.

Bethanne loved to celebrate life— whether a big milestone, a small everyday joy, or unique days like Groundhog Day and the Olympics Opening Ceremony. Her creativity shone in the way she made ordinary moments feel special, she always had a craft ready for her grandchildren, and her love for sewing and baking brought joy to so many.

She also had a deep appreciation for God's creation and its meditative beauty, whether sitting on the porch, walking through the woods, or spending quiet moments by Lake Erie. Her greatest joy was a lifelong habit of walking along or sitting by the Scioto River.

Join our family in celebration of Bethanne's life and her Lord on Saturday, October 25 at Northwest United Methodist Church, 5200 Riverside Drive, Columbus, Ohio. Visitation will be from 1:00pm-3:00pm, a service at 3:00 pm in the outdoor chapel (dress warmly), and a reception to follow. Per Bethanne's request, NO black is to be worn. Come in bright colors ready to celebrate her joy of life and assurance of eternal life!

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to two ministries she loved —Freedom Collective, P.O. Box 1112, Westerville, OH 43086 or Focus on the Family, P.O. Box 219382, Kansas City, MO 64121-9382.