SHELBY: Stephanie Jean (Smith) Hartzler, age 51, passed away Friday, December 19th, 2025 at the Cleveland Clinic following an extended illness, surrounded by her loved ones.
She was born in Youngstown, Ohio on October 9th, 1974, and graduated from Madison High School in 1993. She married her husband, Courtney Hartzler, on June 28th, 2008.
Stephanie enjoyed her work as the Section 8 Coordinator at the Mansfield Metropolitan Housing Authority, where she began working as a receptionist and worked her way up. Later on, she enjoyed working as a Grant Analyst at the Office of Housing Support. To Stephanie, her work was more than just a job. She loved her responsibilities and always advocated for her clients.
She loved spending time with her friends and family. Stephanie spent time camping in the summer and volunteered as the “bingo lady” at Lake Maria Campground. She was known for her love of pink flamingos that she decorated her camper with. She loved to cook and made the best dishes. A few favorites included her homemade meatloaf, pizza, chili and subs. She cooked with a generous and loving spirit. Stephanie was known as the neighbor who gave out delicous cookie trays every Christmas. She also enjoyed playing golf with her husband and friends.
Stephanie’s laugh was unforgettable, and she laughed easy. Her charm was authentic…it seemed like she knew everyone. Even when she wasn’t feeling well Stephanie managed to smile and placed others feelings and needs above her own. She really was kind, sweet and selfless.
She was a proud mom, whose influence will always be a guide to her children Ashley and Jacob.
Stephanie’s faith was a pillar of strength especially during difficult seasons. She is free. She is no longer bound by her earthly body. She is in the presence of her heavenly Father.
She is survived by, her husband Courtney Hartzler; children Ashley Viers and Jacob Viers; sister Michelle (Jay) D’Mello; nieces and nephews Doug D’Mello, Shane Stanley, Katie-Ann Lutes, Martina Kohler, Noah Owens; mother-in-law Mary Kay Leedy; sister-in-law Stephanie (Jeffery) Palmer; best friend “sister” Tara Hartley; and of course her “favorite child” her dog, Sadie Mae.
She was preceded in death by her father Loren A. Smith, her mother Barbara J. (Herold) Heefner; step-father Ray Heefner; sister Lori Owens.
Stephanie’s family will receive friends Friday, December 26th, 2025 from 5-8 pm in the Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home where her funeral will be Saturday, December 27th at 11 am. Pastor Caleb Henry will officiate and private burial services will be held in Lexington Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Friendly House or Richland County Dog Shelter.
Funeral Home: Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home
Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com