Molly Hope (Ruggles) Barnes

Molly Hope Barnes went to be with her Lord and Savior on September 27, 2021, surrounded by her loving family. Molly was born to Ron and Amy Ruggles on May 31, 1978, in Delaware, Ohio.

Molly's devotion to Jesus Christ was central to every aspect of her life. She was extremely knowledgeable of the Word of God and lived out her faith on a daily basis. She served as chaplain of her sorority in college and was an active member of Gethsemane Baptist Church in Marengo, Ohio. Molly shared her kindness and joy freely; her smile would light up a room and was always genuine.

She had a life-long love of animals and farming and enjoyed 4-H in her youth. She traveled extensively showing Simmental cattle and served as the Eastern Regional Trustee for the American Junior Simmental Association. After graduating from Buckeye Valley High School in 1996, Molly's dedication to animals and livestock led to a degree in animal science at the University of Kentucky. After college, she worked as the 4-H program assistant for the OSU Extension Office in Delaware County. She also served on the Morrow County Regional Planning Committee in recent years.

In 2002, Molly married Chad Barnes and together they founded Barnes Unlimited LLC and farmed land in Delaware and Morrow Counties. Molly and Chad were an ideal team, both in their marriage and in their business. The couple's two children, Sam and Sadie, brought Molly an immeasurable amount of joy. She was devoted to homeschooling her children and was highly invested in their education.

Molly was passionate about homesteading and self-sufficiency. Planting and tending her garden were a yearly highlight, while caring for her chickens and sheep brought daily satisfaction. A life-long learner, she enjoyed reading a wide variety of books as well as educating herself in natural healing and homeopathy. She was an excellent cook, and a favorite recipe was her gingerbread cookies.

Molly is survived by her husband Chad Barnes; children Samuel and Sadie Barnes; parents Ron and Amy Ruggles; parents-in-law Tim and Debbie Barnes; brother-in-law Shane (Kim) Barnes; nephews Garrett and Carter Barnes; and numerous extended family and close friends.

Calling hours will be held Wednesday September 29, 2021, from 4:00 - 7:00 pm at Gompf Funeral Home, 400 Center St. Cardington, Ohio. A funeral service will be held Thursday September 30, 2021, at 11:00 am at Gethsemane Baptist Church 4000 County Highway 217, Marengo, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, donations to support Gethsemane Baptist Church or benefit her
children's futures can be made in care of Gompf Funeral Home, 440 Center St. Cardington, Ohio 43315.