MANSFIELD: Marita Boughton, 76, of Mansfield, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 7, 2025 in her home leaving behind a life rich in purpose, music, love, and faith.
Born on August 11, 1948, in Akron, Marita was the daughter of Kenneth J. Wirth and Myrtle M. (Frank) Wirth. She graduated from Copley High School and earned a BS in Education from Kent State University, launching a lifelong commitment to teaching, creativity, and service.
Marita began her professional career teaching in schools, where she touched the lives of countless students. Eventually, she followed in the footsteps of her mother and grandmother, both private piano teachers, and joined the Ohio Music Teachers Association. Marita taught hundreds of children and adults, passing on not only her skills but her deep love for music—especially to her own children and grandchildren. She continued teaching piano lessons right up until the final chapter of her life, her commitment to others never wavering.
On December 14, 1968, Marita married her high school sweetheart, Jerry Boughton. Together, they built a life full of music, laughter, shared memories, and devotion to family. Their marriage was a beautiful partnership rooted in love and mutual respect.
A long term member of Lexington Church of the Cross, Marita served as the substitute church organist and led the bell choir for more than 15 years. Her musical talents enriched worship services, and her dedication to church life reflected her strong faith and servant’s heart.
Marita’s musical tastes varied from classical compositions and upbeat contemporary Christian worship to The Phantom of the Opera, The Beatles, and she even took jazz piano lessons herself. She found joy in creativity beyond music as well—sewing beautiful quilts for family, handcrafting clothes, and even making coordinating vacation shirts for the family long before it became a trend.
She was integral to every holiday gathering, effortlessly cooking comfort food for a house full of loved ones. Her home was a place of warmth, welcome, and conversation—where she always found time to talk, share stories, and truly connect. She was strong-willed, a fighter when it mattered, and always interested in others.
Her legacy is a reminder of the joy found in genuine human connection, hands-on creativity, and heartfelt service.
She is survived by her loving husband Jerry Boughton of Mansfield, son and daughter-in-law Brian Boughton and Dr. Emily Lampe of Denver, Co; daughter and son-in-law Dr. Lori and Dr. David Witter of Granville; grandchildren Isaac Bedient-Lampe, Maisie Boughton, Blake Witter and Dylan Witter, brother and sister-in-law Kevin and Renee Wirth, sister-in-law Donna Wirth, and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother Jerry Wirth and a sister Carol Fitzgerald.
The family will receive friends Saturday, July 12, 2025 from 10 am to 11 am in Lexington Church of the Cross where a memorial service celebrating the life of Marita Boughton will follow at 11 am. The Rev. Dr. Edna Stahl will officiate, and interment will be at a later date in Mansfield Memorial Park.
Memorial donations in honor of Marita may be made to Lexington Church of the Cross, Compassus Hospice, or the American Cancer Society.
Please visit snyderfuneralhomes.com to leave a message of support to the family and preview her tribute video.
Funeral Home: Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home
Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com