Reba J. Brett

Reba J. Brett, 86, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026. She was born on April 19, 1939, in Parkersburg, West Virginia, to Ray Kerby and Amanda Stanley.

Reba graduated from Parkersburg High School in 1957 and soon after moved to Columbus, Ohio, where she began a career with the State of Ohio. Not long after, she met the love of her life, James T. Brett. The two shared 52 years of marriage, and Reba would fondly tell anyone who would listen that she “hit the lottery” with him. Together, they devotedly raised six children, creating a home filled with love, warmth, and unwavering support.

Reba placed family above all else. Her home—and truly, Reba herself—was the heart and gathering place for generations. She cared selflessly for others, taking on the role of caregiver for both her husband and her sister‑in‑law during their illnesses without hesitation or complaint. Her tenacity, constant activity, and generous spirit defined her; she was never one to sit idle and always found purpose in doing for others. She was also known for her exceptional sewing skills, and every child and grandchild turned to her whenever something needed mending, creating, or fixing—she always had the right stitch and the right touch. Reba also had a gentle fondness for birds, especially cardinals, and she found joy in spotting them outside her window.

Reba is preceded in death by her beloved husband James; her parents Ray and Amanda ; brothers Robert (Bob) Kirby, Pete Kirby, and Junior (Dink) Kirby; sisters‑in‑law Mary and Anne Brett; and brother‑in‑law John Brett.  She is survived by her children Deborah, Donald, Patricia, Richard, Kathy, and David (Jen); as well as her grandchildren Chad, Carol (Shaun), Heather (Rodney), Jennifer, Katie (Will), Ryan, and Evan; plus, great-grandchildren Makayla, Makenzie, Benjamin, Brooklynn, Autumn, Sophia, Harleigh, Andre, and Vincent.

Friends may call Friday from 10am-12pm at Egan-Ryan Funeral Home where a Funeral Service will begin at 12pm.  Burial at St. Joseph Cemetery to follow. 

Reba will be remembered for her boundless devotion to family, her tireless spirit, and the love she poured into every life she touched.

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