Earl Abshire

Earl Scott Abshire, aged 80, of Holgate, Ohio, passed away peacefully on April 21, 2025, at Henry County Hospital in Napoleon, Ohio. Born on February 10, 1945, in Phyllis, Kentucky, Earl led a life characterized by dedication, service, and love for his family and community.

Earl was a proud graduate of Feds Creek High School in Feds Creek, Kentucky. He devoted 47 years of his working life to the Campbell Soup Company and Silgan Container, ultimately retiring in 2010. Throughout his career, Earl was known for his strong work ethic and commitment to excellence. Deeply committed to his faith, Earl was an active member of St. John's United Church of Christ in Holgate, where he took on numerous responsibilities including Sunday School superintendent, member of the Christian League, Deacon, Elder, and dedicated church cemetery sexton. His service to the community extended further as he volunteered with the Shalom Food Pantry, always striving to help those in need. Earl's personality shone brightly through his quiet and thoughtful demeanor. He was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Marilyn (Rettig) Abshire, and his children: Tricia (Mike) Mesler of Grove City, Ohio; Ken (Krystal) Abshire of Ashland, Ohio; Sue Abshire of Holgate; and Donna Abshire of Troy, Ohio. He is also survived by eight adored grandchildren: Kristen Mesler, Olivia (Ashlynn) Mesler, Brookelyn Abshire, Jonathon (fiancée Sara Hobart) Abshire, Skyler McLain, Devon Abshire, Keith Abshire, and Kathryn Abshire, along with his great-grandchild, Everleigh. Earl's legacy is also carried on by his sister, Patty (Roger) Hunt of Phyllis, Kentucky, as well as many nieces and nephews who will remember him fondly. He was preceded in death by six brothers: Burl, Ireland, Eugene, Phil, Lawson, and an infant named Lauchie, and four sisters: Virgie Justice, Ruby Ellis, Novella Bartley, and Rosalee Hensley.

Visitation for Earl will be held on April 23, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Zachrich Family Funeral Home located at 114 William Street, Holgate, OH 43527, followed by another visitation on April 24, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at St. John's United Church of Christ, I-946 State Route 108, Holgate, OH 43527. A Celebration of Life service will take place on that same day starting at 11:00 AM.  Memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Earl's beloved St. John's UCC Cemetery.

Earl Scott Abshire will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his faith, his family, and his community. His gentle spirit and selfless actions made a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.