ONTARIO — The Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging, Inc. honored outstanding senior citizens from across its nine-county service area during the 2026 Outstanding Senior Citizen Awards, took place Aug. 26 in Ontario.
Approximately 100 guests attended the event to celebrate the accomplishments, contributions, and lasting impact of this year’s honorees.
Since 1976, the Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging has recognized outstanding senior citizens who make a difference in their communities and demonstrate a positive image of aging.
Duana Patton, CEO of the Area Agency on Aging welcomed guests to the ceremony, which was also led by Cody Albert, Corporate Board President of the Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging, Inc.
Honorees represent the communities of Ashland, Crawford, Huron, Knox, Marion, Morrow, Richland, Seneca, and Wyandot counties.
Winners
The 2026 Outstanding Senior Citizen Award recipients are:
Ashland County: Charles and Melody Barnes
Crawford County: Mohsen “Mo” Ressallat
Huron County: Herschel and Ruth Honeycutt
Knox County: Margaret “Peggy” Dunn
Marion County: Barbara Mead
Morrow County: Chris and Hyla Skudder
Richland County: Sidney “Sid” Hall and Nancy Hall, posthumously
Seneca County: Michael Porter
Wyandot County: Bonnie L. Conley
Award recipients are nominated by individuals or organizations involved with seniors and are selected by the Area Agency on Aging based on the impact of their contributions and accomplishments within their communities.
“Each year, we are honored to recognize older adults who have generously shared their time, talents, and dedication to strengthen their communities,” said Duana Patton, Chief Executive Officer of the Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging, Inc.
“These honorees are inspiring examples of the many ways older adults continue to lead, serve, and positively impact the lives of those around them.”
The event was also attended by family and friends as well as local and state elected officials representing communities throughout the nine-county service area. Proclamations recognizing the honorees were presented by elected officials, including a senator and representatives, mayors, and county commissioners.