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Ben Lyttle Obituary
A lifelong learner and scholar, He loved to learn, Ben graduated from Columbus Public Schools in 1968 and went on to earn a degree in history from The Ohio State University in 1972. He continued his education at the Methodist Theological School, graduating in 1975 with a focus on church history. In 1976, he was ordained as an Elder in the United Methodist Church, beginning a calling that would span more than four decades.
From 1972 until his retirement in 2011, Ben faithfully served United Methodist congregations throughout Western and Southeast Ohio. His ministry was marked by innovation, leadership, and heartfelt devotion to community. Among his many accomplishments, he led the merger of Village Park and East Linden churches in 1976, built the South Point Church in 1977, and planned major construction efforts at Bethel and North Union churches in 1983. He retired on March 1, 2011, after 41 years of active service ministry, but remained an ordained elder until his passing.
On June 18, 1983, Ben married the love of his life, Jean Emrick. Together, they shared nearly 34 years of marriage before Jean's passing in 2017. Their bond was filled with shared faith, joy, and love.
Outside of ministry, Ben found joy in storytelling reading, histories and mysteries, novels, collecting classic films, and traveling extensively throughout the United States, Europe, Africa, and Canada. He was also a devoted dog and cat lover who found companionship and comfort in adopting them over the years.
A service honoring Rev. Lyttle's life will be held at 2:00PM at 8029 E Main St, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068, Glen Rest Memorial Estate, with Rev. John Romig officiating.
Lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Trust Fund in the names of Jeanette and Rev. Ben A. Lyttle at the Gender Road Christian Church, 5336 Gender Road, Canal Winchester, OH 43110
650 West Waterloo Street, Canal Winchester, OH 43110
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