Gretchen Hickman Detrow of West Jefferson passed away May 9, 2026, at Mount Carmel Hospital, Grove City.  She was preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Emma Jean Hickman. Gretchen was born at Doctor's Hospital in Columbus.  She was raised in the country outside Alexandria, Ohio. She graduated from Northridge High School where she played in the marching band.  She went on to graduate from Capital University College of Nursing.  She worked for Mount Carmel Hospital for 29 years.

She is survived by her husband, David Detrow;  her siblings, Carol (Rick) Scott of Fort Myers FL, Larry (Leah) Hickman of Pataskala, OH, Sharon Paxson of Scottsdale, KY and Patrick (Michele) Hickman of Galion OH;  sisters in law, Theresa Detrow Cornell (Danny Sheets) of Columbus, OH. and Lana Detrow of Sabina, OH.;  many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. Gretchen loved all of them. Fortunately, Gretchen's husband, David and niece, Jessica were at her side when she passed away.

In retirement Gretchen enjoyed doing ceramics and making beautiful all occasion cards to send to

family and friends. Gretchen believed that if you are working on anything you should do it with all the excellence you can muster. The one word to describe Gretchen best would be kind.

Visitation will be Sunday, May 17th from 11 am until time of the funeral service at 1 pm. at the O. R. WOODYARD

COMPANY CHAPEL 1346 S. High Street in Columbus. A private graveside will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Firefighters Association 745 W. Main Street West Jefferson, OH. 43162 or to the charity of your choice in memory of Gretchen.