Leslie M. Schutz

Leslie Schutz (née Hannah) died on April 23, 2021 at home with her family after a long illness. She was 71.

Leslie was the beloved wife to Frank Schutz, devoted mother of Andrew Schutz, Ellen Schutz Strickland (Jeremy) and Laura Guinto (Brian), and enormously proud grandma to Amos and Maisie Guinto.

She is also survived by her sisters, Laura DeMasie (Mark) and Betsy Hannah, her brother, Jeff Hannah (Lyn), and many treasured nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Frances Hannah, and her brother, John Hannah.

Leslie was born on March 21, 1950 in Indianapolis, Indiana. After graduating Eastern High School in Sardinia, Ohio, she attended Ohio Wesleyan University, where she graduated in 1972 with a Journalism degree. She married Frank Schutz on May 6, 1978. Before retiring, Frank served as a pastor in the Pittsburgh area for many years and worked in IT after the family moved to Columbus, Ohio. Leslie supported Frank in his ministry and worked over the years as a journalist, administrative assistant, editor, and high school English teacher. Frank and Leslie built a beautiful life for their three children full of laughter, imagination, and many, many books.

Leslie could often be found curled up on the couch with a good book and a cup of hot coffee. She loved to read and shared that love with everyone she knew. Leslie enjoyed reading, but she also loved talking about what she read. She shared many conversations with her children and siblings, breaking down plots and analyzing characters. In the last few years, Leslie was so excited to be a part of a book club, where she often led discussions. She demonstrated and instilled in her kids a love for learning and critical thinking. She was always open to learning new things, argued passionately, and loved good conversation and laughter.

We remember Leslie fondly for her intellect, but also for her wonderful sense of humor. She loved to laugh and put up with more than 43 years of bad jokes and puns from Frank. Leslie's tendency to take everything literally made her an easy target for some gentle teasing from her family, but she always took it with a smile. She loved to share funny family stories and many nights were spent sitting around the table laughing.

Leslie was active in the life of her church, Grace Orthodox Presbyterian. She drew strength from fellowship and her openness and willingness to share her own struggles was an encouragement and an example to so many. She loved the Lord with her whole heart and demonstrated daily a deep faith in God. Her family is confident she is now resting peacefully with her Savior.

Visitation will be Wednesday, April 28, 2021 from 11am until the time of service at 1pm at Newcomer NE Chapel 3047 E. Dublin Granville Rd. Columbus. Private burial at Blendon Central Cemetery.