Miriam Esterly Hutson

1925-2026

COLUMBIANA — In the early morning of Feb. 3, 2026, Miriam Esterly Hutson left her loved ones to be reunited with her husband, John L. Hutson; her parents, Robert and Hildred Esterly; her sister, Ellen Clendenin; and her aunt and uncle, Helen and Roy Pavey.

Born on June 16, 1925, Miriam was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and aunt. As she told her family on her 100th birthday, she had lived a wonderful life and wondered why she was still here. The answer to all who knew her — family and friends alike — was that she was here to light up a room, to show what it meant to be involved, and to be a joy to everyone around her. And that she did, for both her family and her beloved community of Columbiana, which she called home her entire life.

A 1943 graduate of Columbiana High School, Miriam went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from The Ohio State University, where she served as President of her sorority, Delta Gamma. Upon graduation, she and John were married and returned home to open his law practice and raise their two children, Amy and Mark.

Two words that best described Miriam were involved and active. She was known throughout Columbiana as someone who was always engaged in her community. Her involvement included the community’s Sesquicentennial celebration; serving as a founding member, President, and first Woman of the Year of the Columbiana Women’s Club; Elder, Sunday School Superintendent, and longest-living member (88 years) of First Presbyterian Church; and last surviving charter member of the Columbiana-Fairfield Township Historical Society, along with countless other organizations in which she was involved throughout her life.

In addition to her community involvement, Miriam remained physically active. As she approached her late 70s, she supplemented her daily walks with exercise classes at the Workout Center in Columbiana, later adding chair yoga at the Salem Community Center, both of which she continued for the rest of her life. Her motto was simple: you just need to keep moving — and she truly lived by it.

Miriam is survived by her daughter, Amy Johnson, and her husband, Randy; her son, Mark Hutson, and his wife, Terry; her grandchildren, Elizabeth (Basheer) and Kurt; and her three great-grandchildren, Zara, Ayla, and Kalon. She is also survived by five nieces: Martha Clendenin, Jean Conwell, Betty Joe Gravitt, Linda Adams, and Mary Jean Hutson; and three nephews, David, Dan, and Richard Clendenin.

The family would like to thank her long-time physician, Dr. Mark Evans, as well as the compassionate staff of Hospice of the Valley.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, at First Presbyterian Church, with Reverend Fritz Nelson presiding. Calling hours will be held at the church from 9:30 to 11 a.m., immediately followed by the service at First Presbyterian.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to First Presbyterian Church, 28 E. Park Ave., Columbiana, OH 44408, in memory of Miriam Hutson.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Warrick-Kummer-Rettig Funeral Home, Columbiana.

Family and friends may view this obituary and send condolences at www.familycareservices.com.

2/4/26