Beverly Joanne Rankin

Beverly Joanne (Emig) Rankin was born on January 15th, 1939 and passed away peacefully surrounded by her family, December 2nd in Westerville, Ohio. Bev will be fondly remembered for her dedication to teaching, passion for music, boundless creativity, and, above all, her deep love for family.

Bev’s childhood years were spent in Bucyrus, Ohio. She cherished her hometown memories. Her high school years in Bucyrus were marked by her crowning as homecoming queen, as well as Miss Bucyrus, active participation in beauty contests, talent events, and academic pursuits.

The Ohio State University played a big role in Bev’s life. While attending OSU Bev discovered her talent and developed a true passion for teaching. It was also where she met and married James Rankin. Bev was forever a Buckeye fan and supporter. She loved watching the football games and cheering with her brother Jules over the phone each week.

After a few moves (which included living on Fort Dix Army Base in New Jersey), and three children (David, Stephanie, and Stephen) Bev and James settled in Worthington, Ohio. Devoted to the field of elementary special education Bev taught (primarily) within the Westerville School District. She poured her heart and soul into fostering a nurturing environment for her students with unique needs. Her students felt seen, valued, and supported.

Bev’s teaching career spanned many decades. Bev continued with her personal and professional growth by getting her master’s in art education. She retired at the age of 74 leaving an indelible mark on countless students and colleagues. Bev demonstrated a love for her students and passion for their growth every day. Her efforts were acknowledged by her fellow teachers and staff when she was awarded Teacher of the Year.

Her love of fashion and her sense of style were her personal passion. That, and chocolate.

Known for her impeccable style, Bev's wardrobe reflected her love for fashion. Her closet noticeably consisted of primarily black, gray and white. She saw her home as a testament to her creative style and spirit and was incredibly proud of it.

Above all else, Bev’s favorite role was as Nana to James, Sam, Jake, Riley, Peyton, Ryan, and Mason. She treasured her time with her grandkids, especially reading, baking, and playing cards together.

Bev is survived by her brother Jules Emig (Trish) of Stillwater OK; her two sons David (Diana) and Steve (Wendi) Rankin, and daughter Stephanie (Charles) Hudson. She was preceded in death by her husband James Rankin, parents Charles and Velma Emig and two brothers Jan and Jeff.

Family will receive friends on Thursday December 14th at 4:30pm to 6:30pm with a service beginning at 6:30pm at the Shaw-Davis Funeral Home located in Victorian Village at 34 West 2nd Ave, Columbus, Ohio 43201. There will be a gathering after the service at The Rossi in the Short North. The address is 895 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215.  

A burial service will be held Friday December 15th at 2:00pm at Green Lawn Cemetery Chapel located 1000 Greenlawn Ave, Columbus, OH 43223.

She absolutely loved flowers but please don’t feel you have to send any. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your favorite charity.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at the Inn at Bear Trail and Care 360 Hospice for their unwavering support during Bev's last days.