
April 18, 1934 - February 1, 2025
Visitation
Saturdary February 15th from 9-10 am at Moreland Funeral Home
Service
Saturday, February 15th at 10 am at Moreland Funeral Home
Burial
Blendon Central Cemetery
Sally (Sarah) Byers, 90, of Westerville, passed away on Saturday, Feb. 1, in her home at Inniswood Village, surrounded by 3 generations of loving family. Sally believed whole heartedly in the saving power of Jesus, and we fully believe He guided her Heavenward to be with the Lord, her beloved Dave, and countless others who have gone before her. She was a very loved wife, mother, aunt, grandmother and great grandmother, and a friend to countless others who knew her through acts of service and a community formed by drinking iced tea in the Hillcrest neighborhood, playing board games and card games, and sharing and gifting what she made with her hands, weakened by polio as a child but loving and strong nevertheless.
Sally was born in East Liverpool, Ohio, on April 18, 1934, to Milton and Maxine Arbuthnot. She was the younger sister of Patricia (Owen) Eddy, who predeceased her. When her parents divorced, she grew up as Sally Owen in Linden, Ohio, with her mother, stepfather, and sister. She graduated from Linden McKinley High School in 1952, and until her death remained in touch with many of her classmates. She then worked for the Ohio Bell Telephone Company, where she met Dave, and they married on November 19, 1955. She and Dave built a loving home in Westerville for their 5 children Amy (Tim) Pressler, Dan, Tim (Mary), Matt (Shellie) and Emily (Kyle) Kauss. She loved her grandchildren Abby, Sara, Nate, Zac, Erik, David, Megan, Eric, Charlie, Caroline, Andy, Ryan and Josh, and her great grandchildren Ella, Lilly, Amy and June.
Anyone who met Sally became her friend, and anyone who knew her glimpsed her passion for sewing, card making, corny poetry and beading. She was beading up until a few days before her death, making beautiful and complicated pendants, earrings and bracelets. This was not just stringing beads on a cord, but using a very fine needle and thread for very intricate designs. For someone who was completely colorblind, she managed to create beautiful clothing for family members (including granddaughter Sara's wedding gown), just as long as someone helped her pick out the right color thread at the fabric store. She was a fierce competitor at Scrabble, Rummikub, euchre and Five Crowns, playing that card game with her daughters 3 days before she passed. Emily won both times, but Mom came in second. Mom became a pool shark late in life, having never played until she was in her early 80s. She could beat any competitor and had her own cue, her own style of shooting the ball and a way of looking at the angles to "run the table".
Sally always regretted not going to college, but she supported her 5 children as they all received their college degrees. She was a huge Ohio State fan, and watched the National Championship game Jan. 20, 2025 with enthusiasm, texting her kids whenever there was a Buckeye touchdown. She admired Will Howard for his skill and his faith.
Sally and Dave were married for 63 years when he passed away in 2019 and together they grew in faith as well as love all of those years. Mom was active in a weekly Bible study at Inniswood Village and was in close fellowship with members of her former Sunday school class at Genoa Baptist Church. Her last words to family were "pray, pray, pray", until she gradually left her earthly life later that evening.
Calling hours will be from 9 to 10 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 15, at Moreland Funeral Home, followed by the funeral at 10 a.m., officiated by son Tim Byers and son-in-law Tim Pressler. A family graveside service will follow at Blendon Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Salvation Army.
OSU attire is welcome at the service Sally would get a kick out of that.
Condolences
Susan Daniel - Feb 11, 2025
I have so many cherished memories of Hillcrest Drive, and the Byers family is a big part of that. We were truly fortunate to live in such a wonderful neighborhood, surrounded by kind-hearted people like Mr. and Mrs. Byers. I fondly remember their greenhouse—it always amazed me—and the times we spent together at our annual neighborhood picnics. I can still picture them working in the yard as I rode my bike up and down the street or played next door with my friend Amy. To this day, I treasure the creations Mrs. Byers made for us. She made my girls’ Christmas pillowcases that they still use today! I also have two throw pillows she crafted—one with our firstborn, Kennedy, and the other with all my parents’ granddaughters. They were such extraordinary people, and they will be deeply missed. I feel so blessed that they were part of some of the happiest moments of my life.
Linda Bombaci - Feb 10, 2025
Sally was a lovely presence at the Genoa Grove Condos. She always had a smile and upbeat words to brighten the day.
Sande Siler - Feb 9, 2025
I knew your beautiful Mom when she lived at Parkside. She was a gem, and a great pool player. It was a pleasure to have known her. So sorry for your loss
Linnet & Andy Knight - Feb 9, 2025
We are so sorry for your loss. It was wonderful to read such a loving tribute to your mom! We pray for God’s hand to comfort you.
Laurie Decatur - Feb 8, 2025
Our condolences to your entire family. She was a very sweet Christian woman. She and your dad our in Heaven living the life!!! I/we have many fond memories. She always made me feel like part of the family. ( We can't forget about Woody Wood Pecker!!) Love, Laurie and Tom Decatur
Diana Ginnan - Feb 6, 2025
Sally and I met at our first jobs at Ohio Bell. I introduced her to Dave. We have kept in touch all these years. I have many fond memories. With my deepest sympathy.
Jed and Debra Dunning - Feb 5, 2025
On behalf the the Dunning family, we are so sorry to hear this news. Sally was a beloved family friend. All of our love and prayers.
Susan Byers Tribble - Feb 5, 2025
I always remember Aunt Sally with a smile on her face, even in the midst of raising a beautiful, bright and noisy family of 5 kids, my cousins! We always enjoyed our visits and have many fun memories of all the family trips and get togethers, always with too much food! Rest in peace, Aunt Sally. Along with your beloved husband, your many family members and friends, are waiting for you with open arms! Love, Susan
Vinny Herwig - Feb 5, 2025
May your memories be a window through a sad time!