Obituary

Ada B. Rife
May 18, 1931 — March 14, 2025
Miamisburg

Ada B. Rife, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, a member of the Miamisburg community, passed away on March 14, 2025, at the age of 93. Born to Robert and Beatrice Isenhart on May 18, 1931, Ada lived a vibrant, fulfilling life that touched the hearts of many.

A proud graduate of Fairview High School, class of 1949, Ada married the love of her life, Thomas Rife, in 1950, just after graduating. Their partnership blossomed into a beautiful family, welcoming their first child in 1951. Ada dedicated her early years as a devoted stay-at-home mom before joining Thomas to run Rife Jewelers in Oakwood, where they shared over 50 years of hard work, laughter, and commitment to their craft and community.

In 1975, Ada and Thomas built their cherished lake house at Lake Waynoka in Sardinia, Ohio, a serene escape where they created countless memories with family, enjoying fishing, boating, and relaxation. Ada had a passion for antiquing, and her home was a reflection of her exquisite taste and love for history.

Ada is preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Beatrice Isenhart; her beloved husband, Thomas Rife; her brother, Robert Isenhart; and son-in-law, Michael Depew. She leaves behind a legacy of love and connection, survived by her children, Sheryl (Robert "Bob") Merker, David Rife, and Christine Depew; grandchildren, Carrie (Shawn), Erin (Curtis), Nicole (Ryan), Jennifer (Chris), Corey, Adam (Meredith), Katie (Dom), and Conrad (Desma); and a host of great-grandchildren: Owen, Gabby, Aubrey, Evan, Cole, Samantha, Jackson, Saige, Benny, Zachary, Jase, Lyric, Millie, Levi, Elijah, Lucas, Charlotte, Theo, and Leah.

Ada’s warmth and love will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Friends and family are invited to celebrate her remarkable life during the upcoming funeral services, which will take place at Routsong Funeral Home Kettering Chapel (2100 E Stroop Rd) on Wednesday March 19th, 2025, at 11am. A visitation will be held an hour prior to the service, where those who loved Ada may come together to share their memories and honor her legacy.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Ada’s name to American Cancer Society, or Ohio's Hospice of Dayton cause's that were close to her heart.

Rest in peace, Ada. Your light will forever shine in the hearts of your family and friends.