GLOUSTER, Ohio – Ronald “Joe” Tivner, 65 of Corning, Ohio entered eternal rest on March 5, 2026, at his residence in Glouster. He passed exactly as he lived his life: with quiet strength, anchored by his devoted wife, Phyllis, who remained by his side until the very end.
Joe was born on February 10, 1961 in Nelsonville, Ohio, to the late Gene and Grace (Courtney) Tivner. A proud graduate of Miller High School, Joe answered the call to serve his country in 1979 by enlisting in the United States Army. His eleven-year journey took him from the hills of Ohio to the borders of Korea and Germany, instilling in him a lifelong pride in his country and his brothers-in-arms. He was, in every sense, a true American soldier who held freedom and the American flag in the highest regard.
Following his honorable discharge, Joe continued his life of service to the State of Ohio, working as a prison guard for 20 years. For the final 14 years, he worked manufacturing armor defense components for future military generations.
Joe was a man of simple passions and deep roots. While he was a protector by nature, he was a nurturer at heart. He found peace in the great outdoors-whether he was hunting morel mushrooms, tending to his garden, or enjoying the warmth of a fire, he was a man who appreciated the land he served. On Sundays, you could find him at Bill’s Bar with his “football family,” remaining a loyal fan of the Cleveland Browns through every season. Above all, Joe was a family man who cherished every moment spent with his loved ones.
Joe is survived by his loving wife, Phyllis Losey Tivner; brothers, Elmer (Joan) Tivner, Ric (Estela) Tivner, and Bill (Darla) Reed; a son, Mike (Kayla) Smith; a daughter, Karen (Terry) Vore; he leaves behind a legacy of love in his grandchildren, Shelby (Jed) Vore and Megan (Dalton) Coy, Alex Smith and Janessa (Riley) Smith; four great grandbabies whom he adored; and nephews, Rick Jr., Austin, Jake, and Jeremy Tivner.
Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his grandparents, Elmer and Hattie Tivner; brothers, Rusty, Bob, Terry “Jake”, and Gary Tivner. Joe is now reunited with his “Momma Grace”, his dear brothers, and his beloved Grandma Tivner.
In honor of Joe’s humble nature and request, no formal funeral will be held. He will be commemorated with a celebration of life and military honors at a later date. He leaves behind a country he guarded, a family he nurtured and protected, and a wife who was his entire world.
