December 9, 1969 — August 29, 2025
It is with deep love and sorrow that we announce the passing of Jody Dee Summers Christman, who went home to be with the Lord on August 29, 2025, at the age of 55, at Miami Valley Hospital in Dayton, Ohio, surrounded by her loving family.
Jody was born on December 9, 1969, in Danville, Illinois, and spent her childhood years in Hillsboro, Indiana, a town proudly known as having “600 happy people and a few old sore heads.” From the very beginning, she brought light and love to all who knew her.
On May 4, 1996, she married the love of her life, Rodney Christman. Together, they shared 29 years of marriage and 36 years of life and love side by side. Her greatest pride was her marriage and the family she and Rodney built together.
She was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, and friend. Her greatest joys in life were her family and her faith. She lived each day with a heart full of love, always putting others before herself, and her kindness touched everyone who knew her.
She found strength and comfort in her unwavering belief in God, and her life was a testament to that faith. Whether through her words, her prayers, or her simple acts of care, she reminded those around her of the power of love and grace.
Beyond her faith and family, Jody had many passions that brought her joy. She loved collecting salt and pepper shakers, treasured her years in Girl Scouts, found fulfillment in serving at her church and adored the company of her beloved dogs. These simple joys reflected her warm spirit and the way she cherished life’s blessings, both big and small.
Jody is survived by her loving husband, Rodney Christman; her children, Robert, Megan, and Allen Christman; her sisters, Sharon Summers, Nancy Funkhouser, and Jeannine Summers; her father-in-law, Richard Christman; her brother-in-law, Kevin (Jodi) Christman; her sisters-in-law, Kelly Oliver and Lisa (Bob) Mayo. She is also survived by 4 nieces, 11 nephews, numerous great-nieces and great-nephews, all of whom brought her great joy.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Nadine and Robert Summers; her grandmother; several beloved aunts and uncles; and her mother-in-law, Jane Christman.
A service celebrating her life will be held on Saturday, August 6, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Ansonia United Methodist Church, Ansonia, Ohio. The family will receive guests prior to the service at the church from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM. All who loved her are welcome to attend in casual dress and share in remembering her remarkable spirit.
Her family takes comfort in knowing that while she will be deeply missed here on earth, she now rests peacefully in the arms of her Savior. Her legacy of faith, kindness, service, and unconditional love will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.
In lieu of traditional expressions of sympathy, flowers are welcomed, but the family also request that contributions be directed to Tribute Funeral Homes to assist with final expenses.
Tribute Funeral Homes is serving Jody’s family.
Online condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.tributefuneralhomes.com.
