Verna Hubbard

Verna Ann Wills Hubbard, age 87, of Westerville, Ohio, passed away peacefully on September 15, 2026, at her daughter’s home in Westerville.

Verna was born on December 2, 1938, in Mineola, Texas, to Wade Willard Wills and Vernon Humphries. She dedicated her life to nursing, education, family, art, and lifelong learning.

Her career in nursing began with her graduation from Mercy Hospital School of Nursing in Portsmouth, Ohio, in 1959. She continued her education at The Ohio State University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1964 and a Master of Science in Nursing in 1980. Over the course of her career, she held a variety of nursing and healthcare positions at Mercy Hospital in Portsmouth, Mount Carmel Medical Center and Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, Ohio University in Portsmouth, and several OhioHealth facilities, including Doctor’s Hospital, Grant Hospital, and Home Reach in Columbus.

Verna believed in staying active, engaged, and always learning. She participated in aerobics, strength training, line dancing, and yoga throughout her life. She also had a deep appreciation for nature and found particular happiness in volunteering at Inniswood Metro Gardens in Westerville and tending the flower garden at her own home.

Her love of art began in childhood and remained with her throughout her life. She enjoyed drawing, watercolor, and pastels and continued creating and sharing art until her passing. Art was not simply a pastime for Verna—it was a lifelong source of creativity, expression, and connection with others.

Verna is survived by her daughter, Kerin Ann Hubbard Ricks, and granddaughter, Sydney Ann Wills, both of Westerville, Ohio.

She leaves behind a legacy of caring for others, pursuing knowledge, appreciating the beauty of nature, and embracing creativity. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her family and all whose lives she touched.

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