Myrtle Marie Hindes Grist

Myrtle Marie Hindes Grist age 76 passed away after a long illness on October, 31st. Born December 16th 1931 in Pennsylvania to Irish immigrants Andrew Livingston Hindes and Lydia Matilda Teagle. Her family traveled from New York to California looking for work during the Great Depression. Both she and her brother were stricken with Scarlet Fever and only for the kindness of the Salvation Army did they survive. Myrtle was preceded in death by her parents, brother: Joseph Franklin Hindes, daughter: Valorie Erin Grist, a grandson, son-in-law: Charles L. Smith and Husband: Wallace C. Summers Grist whom she married February 18, 1950 and again on December 24, 1970. Together they ran the Grist Painting & Decorating Company for 54 years. She leaves their children Mark Andrew Grist of Poland and Dr. Victoria Ann Summers of Oneida. Two Grandchildren, Ryan M. Grist and Kelly Nicole Grist. Myrtle's passion and greatest loves were her family, friends and the stage and they filled her life as she brighten the world. A career spanning decades starring in countless stage productions and employed as Head Costumer at the Youngstown Playhouse as well as other Community Playhouses. In the 80's Myrtle toured the U.S. with the theatrical touring group, The Young Americans. Of which several of todayâa�a��s celebrity stars called Myrtle their "road mom". Beginning in California and crossing the U.S. she graced the boards of every major theatrical hall. She delighted audiences nationwide with her unforgettable portrayals of Aunt Eller in Oklahoma! and Mrs. Paroo in The Music Man. Her most memorial performances were when she teamed up with her own theatrical daughter, Victoria (Ado Annie in Oklahoma!) Together they brought the house down in many stage productions. Later she was hired by Walt Disney World, Florida as a costumer. Myrtle was no stranger to a standing ovation. And at her final curtain call, Jesus was in the front row. The World was Her Stage and She was Our Brightest Star. Bereaved by her devoted and loving Son and grateful Daughter. Family and friends will be received today from 5-8 p.m. at the Cunningham-Becker Funeral Home in Poland. Funeral services will be held Thursday at 1 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Lake Park Cemetery. The family requests that memorial tributes take the form of contributions in Mrs. Gristâa�a��s name to the Indian Summers Animal Rescue, 2550 Fox Ave. S.E., Minerva, OH 44657. Please visit www.beckerobits.com to send condolences.

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