Jan Rae Villarreal

Jan Rae Villarreal, age 74 of Northwood, Ohio passed away suddenly on October 31, 2026. Jan was an incredibly loving mother with a huge heart full of love for her family, especially her children. Her family was her entire world! She shared special bonds with each of her children that they will hold dear to their hearts! She was the best wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend anyone could ever ask for.

Jan was a strong, independent, and resilient woman who faced life’s challenges with determination and grace. Becoming a mother at an early age never stood in the way of her dreams. While raising her three children, she worked at Kmart pharmacy while putting herself through college. After earning her business degree, she began her career at BCBS, later known as Medical Mutual of Ohio, working her way from an entry-level position into management through years of dedication and hard work. She managed offices in both Cleveland and Toledo.

Despite her many responsibilities, Jan never missed an opportunity to show up for her children. She was always in the stands shaking her cow bell, yelling and cheering them on, she later found that same joy in watching her grandchildren play sports, cheer, and dance. Their Happiness was her greatest joy.

She also treasured the memories she made with her husband, Jimmy, especially the weekends they spent together at Big Sandy’s campground. She stood faithfully by his side and lovingly cared for him throughout his battle with colon cancer. Her selflessness extended beyond her immediate family, as she also devoted herself to caring for her ailing mother and her younger brother, Tim (her best friend), following his tragic accident, all while maintaining her career and caring for her family.

Jan was truly the heart of her family – a fighter, caregiver, provider, and an extraordinary example of unconditional love. Her strength, kindness and devotion to her family will never be forgotten. There are simply no words to express how deeply her children loved her and how greatly she will be missed.

Jan is survived by her son; Ruben R. Ruiz, Sr., her daughter; Michelle (Michael)Moffitt, her son; Michael A. Ruiz, sister; Terri Hovey, brother; Jeffrey (Sandi) Litzenberg; Eleven grandchildren; Anthony, Ruben, Kyle, Michael, Makenna, Breanna, Macie Rae, Morgan, Evin, Lillian and Lucas. Six great grandchildren; Ja’layiah, Amelia Rae, Mason, Nalia, Mya and Novella. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband; James P. “Jimmy” Villarreal, mother and father; Isabella M. (Overton) and Clarence W. “Litz’ Litzenberg. Her sister; Jill Kay Litzenberg and her brother; Timothy M. Litzenberg.

Per Jan’s wishes, there will be no public services but a private burial will take place. Cremation has taken place. Her arrangements were entrusted to the Cremation Society of Toledo, 701 North Main Street, Walbridge, Ohio 43465.