Some people build their legacy with words. Others build it with calloused hands, quiet dedication, and a lifetime of making the world around them a little better than they found it. Jeffrey Worley’s work was never just about fixing things—it was about caring for people. His steady presence, unwavering work ethic, and servant’s heart will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Jeffrey Worley, 72, of Lexington, passed away on Sunday, August 2, 2026, after an unanticipated illness, at OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital.
Born on April 21, 1954, in Mansfield, Ohio, Jeff was the son of the late Richard P. Worley and Lottie Jane (Hoverstick) Worley.
Jeff attended Lexington High School while also studying maintenance through Pioneer Career and Technology Center, preparing for the career that would become his life’s work. He faithfully served Lexington Local Schools for more than 30 years as custodian and later in the maintenance department. He took immense pride in his work, caring for the school as if it were his own home. His presence in the halls was reassuring—if something needed fixed, Jeff would take care of it. He was respected and appreciated by the staff, admired by the students, and loved being part of the Lexington school community.
For decades, Jeff also served as sexton of Lexington Cemetery, continuing a family tradition begun by his father. He cared for the cemetery grounds with great dedication, ensuring they remained beautiful and well maintained. He understood the importance of the cemetery as a place of remembrance and treated every family who visited and every loved one laid to rest there with dignity, compassion, and respect.
Even with two full-time responsibilities, Jeff was rarely idle. He was always willing to take on part-time work and was the person everyone called when something needed repaired. Whether it was replacing a water heater, carpentry projects, fixing lawn mowers, or tackling nearly any maintenance job, Jeff could fix just about anything. He was dependable, hardworking, and known for doing every job the right way. A true perfectionist, he believed that if something was worth doing, it was worth doing well.
On October 5, 2013, Jeff married Jean Spurgeon Griebling. Together they built a happy life centered around their home. Although each enjoyed their own interests, they shared a love of working outdoors, caring for their property, and creating beautiful landscaping with shrubs, flowers, and well-kept grounds. Jeff especially enjoyed spending time on his pride and joy—his John Deere tractor, complete with every gadget he could add. Their home reflected the care and pride they both shared, and together they found happiness in life’s simple pleasures.
Jeff will be remembered as a positive person, a go-getter, and someone who could always be counted on. He was devoted to his family and especially cherished his nieces and nephews. He never missed an opportunity to brag about their accomplishments and took great pride in the people they had become.
Jeff’s legacy is one of hard work, service, kindness, and unwavering dedication. Through the school he cared for, the cemetery he lovingly maintained, the countless people whose homes and equipment he repaired, and the family he treasured, he leaves behind a lasting impact that will not be forgotten.
He is survived by his beloved wife Jean Worley; stepson Collin (Shannon) Griebling; siblings and their spouses Richard (Linda) Worley, Susan (Peter) Dumpis, and Martin (Karen) Worley; nieces, nephews and their spouses, Kyle (Sarah) Worley, Steve (Venus) Worley, Jenny (Jason) Champion, Kristy (Lee) Mertins, Becky (Mark) Terry, Jessica (Nathan) Kiger, Karie Whitaker, and Brittany Hill; great-nieces and great-nephews, Isaac, Nathaniel, Sherven, and Sophie Worley, Lily and Paul Champion, Jack and Theo Terry, Connor and Addison Roseborough, Mollie and Trevor Worley, Alexa Whitaker, Janna Blair, and Stephen Hill; along with extended family and many friends whose lives were enriched by his generosity, skill, and friendship.
He was preceded in death by his parents Richard and Lottie Worley, brother Douglas Bruce Worley, and nephew Evan Hill.
A graveside service will be held Monday, August 10, 2026 in Lexington Cemetery. Celebrant Dave Roberts will officiate.
Donations may be made to the Arbor Day Foundation Trees in Memory of Jeff Worley (https://shop.arborday.org/commemorative-trees-for-others ) or directly to Jean to be applied to a meaningful remembrance selected by the family.
The Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home is honored to serve the Worley family and encourages words of support and memories to be shared at snyderfuneralhomes.com.
Funeral Home: Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home
Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com