Robert ‘Bob’ Lee Hutton Sr.

1939-2026

SALEM — Robert “Bob” Lee Hutton Sr., passed away on Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026, in Salem, Ohio.

Bob was born Aug. 21, 1939, in Byesville, Ohio, to the late Harold Hutton and Juanita (Albright) LaMoncha. He graduated from Byesville High School in 1957 and earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Mount Union, where he played track, basketball, and served as captain of the football team. He was also a member of Alpha Tau Omega fraternity.

Bob devoted many years to education, teaching Biology and Chemistry in the Columbiana school system. He had a passion for learning and took great pride in guiding and encouraging his students. Beyond the classroom, Bob coached football and basketball, and also coached basketball at Real Life Christian Academy, impacting many young lives, and was remembered as a favorite teacher and mentor by countless students and athletes.

On Feb. 16, 1963, Bob married the love of his life, Darlene Pandolph, celebrating 63 years of marriage. They built a life centered on faith, family, and mutual support, enjoying vacations to Hilton Head Island and treasured trips to the Arabian Horse Show (Egyptian Event) in Lexington, Kentucky, which became an annual family tradition.

Bob and his family began their journey in elder care by opening the first Hutton Nursing Home in 1958, and later established Hutton Nursing Center I (1974), II (1980), III (1986), and The Courtyard at Lexington (1995) in Salem, providing compassionate care to countless seniors.

In 1965, Bob found a lifelong passion in raising Arabian horses on the family farm. He also loved the Canfield Fair and harness races, appreciated life’s simple pleasures, and often sang for his family or during quiet moments alone. A devoted man of faith, Bob taught Sunday School and led singing in church, and he led prayer groups while sharing encouragement with all who gathered in his home.

Bob was preceded in death by his father, Harold Hutton; his mother, Juanita LaMoncha; his stepfather, Theron LaMoncha; his foster son, Don Rickman; his sister, Beverly Beall Sills; and his brother, Gary Hutton.

He is survived by his wife, Darlene Hutton; his son, Robert (Deri) Hutton Jr.; his daughters, Dee Hoffman and Lindy (Brad Barringer) Hutton; his grandchildren, Austen Hutton, Kelly Hutton, Maya Hoffman, Rylee Hutton, Brode Hoffman, and Lexa Hoffman; and his great-grandchild, Paxten Hutton. He also leaves behind Don’s wife, Bonnie, and Don’s children, Amanda (Ryan) Ingle, Katie Rickman, and Donnie (Amanda) Rickman, whom he loved dearly, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins who will forever cherish his memory.

Bob and his family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the friends who recently helped him at home, with trips to games, health appointments, and at the barn, including Dick Helmick, Jerry Dailey, Kim Johnson, Kory (Colette) Smith, and Shirley Noel Smith.

Bob’s life will be remembered for his generosity, unwavering faith, love of family, and dedication to his community — a legacy of kindness and service that will inspire all who knew him.

Calling hours for Bob will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 27, 2026, at Stark Memorial Funeral Home, located at 1014 E. State St., Salem, Ohio. Another set of calling hours will be held from 2 to 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 1, 2026, Realife Church, located at 12824 Salem Warren Road, Salem, Ohio. A funeral service will commence at 3:30 p.m. at the church with fellowship following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Realife Church, 12824 Salem Warren Road, Salem, Ohio 44460. Donations may also be sent online through the church’s website.

Arrangements are being handled by Stark Memorial Funeral Home.

If unable to attend, send a complimentary “Hugs from Home” at www.starkmemorial.com/hugs-from-home.

To view Bob’s obituary, send condolences or order flowers, visit www.starkmemorial.com.

2/26/26