Retha Mary Cavins

Mary Retha Cavins, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend to many, peacefully passed away at the age of 99 in Troy, Ohio, at Hospice of Troy. Born on March 17, 1927, in Harrogate, Tennessee, Retha was the cherished daughter of Benjamin Frank Gulley and Bertha Giles Gulley. Her long and fulfilling life was a testament to her deep faith, love for her family, and her unwavering commitment to her community.

Retha was united in marriage to Clyde Cavins on October 13, 1945, in Middlesboro, Kentucky. Together, they shared 52 wonderful years, raising five children and building a home filled with love, laughter, and devotion. Although Clyde preceded her in death, their legacy continues to live on through their children, Carson (Vicki) Cavins, Rocky (Belinda) Cavins, Bernetta (Terry) Ford, Janice (Steve) Koons, and Donna Hawkins.

A devoted Christian, Retha accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior early in life. She was a valued member of Riverside Missionary Baptist Church in Springfield, Ohio, where she influenced others because of her strong faith in Christ.

Retha’s life was enriched by her many interests and hobbies. She took great joy in being a homemaker, where she excelled in quilting, gardening, and singing in church. Her fondest memories were made while spending time with her grandchildren, sharing stories of old times with her brothers and sisters, and nurturing the beautiful garden she tended with love.

Her life was a beautiful tapestry woven with kindness, faith, and family. Retha was blessed with 15 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren, each of whom she adored and cherished. She leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and unwavering faith that will forever be remembered by all who knew her.

Retha was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband, Clyde; her son, Carson Cavins; grandson, Allen Tod Ford; granddaughter, Tami (Ford) Pernell; and her siblings, Ocie Hampton, Ola Brooks, Essie Daniels, Ina Mae Lambert, Virgil Gulley, Layford Gulley, and Denvil Gulley.

Her family holds her dear in their hearts and cherishes the memories they have shared. As they say goodbye to a remarkable woman, they take comfort in knowing she is finally at peace and reunited with those she loved. “Forever in our hearts.”

Funeral Services will be at 12:00 PM on Monday, August 31, 2026, at Arnett & Steele Valley Chapel with Rev. Jackie Daniels and Mr. Rick Keck officiating. Burial will follow at the Cosby-Poplar Grove Cemetery with her grandsons serving as pallbearers.

The family will receive friends from 11:00 AM until funeral hour at 12:00 PM at Arnett & Steele Valley Chapel in Harrogate, which is honored to serve the Cavins family.