Myra Jean Belcher, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away on August 31, 2026, following an extended illness. She was 89 years old.

Myra was born on October 20, 1936, in Canton, Ohio, to George and Margaret Rausch. She graduated from McKinley High School in 1954 and attended Stephens College before her talent carried her to New York City, where she danced professionally as a Rockette and as a June Taylor dancer alongside Jackie Gleason.

Myra’s life was defined by grace, faith, and a love of beauty in all its forms. She met the love of her life, Richard Belcher, in the seventh-grade church choir, and the two shared 30 devoted years of marriage until his passing.

Although the “stage” marked her early years, Myra’s heart was always turned toward serving others. As Director of Volunteers for the American Red Cross, she also taught, and choreographed all forms of dance. Her dedication extended to the boards of the Canton Ballet and the Canton Symphony, and she offered her hands and heart to countless causes throughout her community. For her extraordinary impact in the arts and volunteerism, she was inducted into the YWCA Stark County’s Women’s Hall of Fame.

Of all her accomplishments, however, the one she treasured most was being a devoted wife and mother. Myra had a gift for making everyone feel welcome. She never met a stranger and had a special way of bringing people together. She guided those around her to pause and recognize the hand of God in every detail of creation.

A lover of nature, gardening, and sewing, Myra created a home that was full of warmth. As a seamstress, she lovingly crafted clothes for her daughters and grandchildren, each stitch a reflection of her love for them. She also delighted in traveling the world with her cherished friends. Christ-centered and selfless, she lived her faith not merely through words, but through her actions—a living testimony to all who knew her.

Myra was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Richard; her daughter, Stefanie Spielman; and her brother, David Rausch.

She is survived by her daughters, Susan Fitz (Bill), Cindy Belcher, and Sandy Belcher (Alain), son-in-law Chris Spielman (Carrie), her 10 grandchildren, Lauren, Allie, Emily, Maggie, Maddie, Noah, Macy, Audrey, Kendra, and Gina: and 12 great-grandchildren.

We wish to express heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Cotter House for their loving care of Myra, as well as National Church Hospice and her “angels”- Jordan, Paige, Darlesha, Brandy, Michelle, Jeaneen and Amy.

The family will welcome friends for a time of visitation on October 24, 2026, from 11-11:45am at Christ Presbyterian Church, 530 Tuscarawas St. W. Canton, Ohio. A memorial service will immediately follow at 12 pm with a private burial to follow. Please join us in honoring her memory.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at Alzheimer's Association or to the Stefanie Spielman Fund for Breast Cancer Research at giveto.osu.edu

May she rest in the peace of the Savior she faithfully served.