Steven Ray Collinsworth

Steven Ray Collinsworth, 57, of Bellefontaine, Ohio, passed away peacefully on April 21, 2025, at Mary Rutan Hospital, surrounded by family who loved him dearly (and were probably still laughing at one of his jokes).

Steve was born May 8, 1967, in Chillicothe, Ohio, to the late Johnny L. and Mary Louise Collinsworth. He spent most of his life in Bellefontaine, making memories, friends, and plenty of laughter along the way.

Steve worked for many years at Belletech and managed Crazy Larry’s Carpet — proving that, yes, he could sell just about anything with that trademark Collinsworth charm. He was also, by all accounts, an unpaid (but very passionate) spokesperson for Dollar General, where he should have probably had his own parking spot.

A self-declared “rabid” — sorry, avid — sports fanatic, Steve loved all things sports, often loudly and proudly. But what Steve loved most wasn’t a team or a job — it was people. He had a natural gift for making those around him laugh until they cried, and he was the kind of person you just wanted to be around.

Above all, Steve was most proud of being “Uncle Steve” — a title he carried with immense pride. All of his nieces and nephews absolutely adored him, and he never missed a chance to brag about them, cheer them on, or just be their biggest fan. That same love extended to his adopted daughter, Kennedy.

He Is survived by his brother Marty (Micaela) Collinsworth; his adopted daughter Kennedy; nieces Brandi, Kaleigh, McKenzie, Layci, Leah, and Tatum; nephews Bart, Hayden, Reyce, and Teal; and a large extended family of friends and loved ones who will forever miss his jokes, his spirit, and his huge heart.

Steve was preceded in death by his sister, Trudy Ransbottom, and his niece, Tara Madison.

The family is planning a Celebration of Life at a later date, where stories will be shared, laughter encouraged, and maybe even a few Dollar General purchases displayed in his honor.

In Steve’s own way, he showed us that life is better when you’re laughing — and we promise to keep that going.