Bret Allen Boys, 67, of Newark, passed away peacefully, Wednesday, April 29, 2026, after a long, courageous battle with colorectal cancer with his two daughters by his side. Bret was born on June 20, 1958, in Huntington, WV to William and Ruth Ann (Adkins) Boys.

Bret was a 1976 graduate of Gahanna Lincoln High School. He built a fulfilling career as a shipping supervisor at Longaberger. He was widely admired for his compassion, empathy, and steady leadership - qualities that made him “the best boss” in the eyes of many who worked alongside him. He was a simple man who loved fiercely. As a gifted writer, he often expressed his heart through handwritten letters to his wife and daughters, capturing moments and emotions with sincerity and grace. He was a self-described “sports freak” who always looked forward to the next game, race or opportunity to cheer for The Ohio State Buckeyes and the Cleveland Browns. He also took great pride in his yardwork and landscaping, always accompanied by his favorite music. One of the greatest testaments to his character was the more than five years he devoted to caring for his wife during her battle with Alzheimer’s - living out the truest meaning of their wedding vows, in sickness and in health. In a way that felt uniquely Bret, he left this world on his wife’s birthday - a moment both heartbreaking and beautifully full-circle, as if he were finding his way back to her.

He is survived by daughters, Erica Duncan-Hayes (Kyle) and Chanda Duncan (Ryan) Frenton; and his cherished grandchildren, Ava Woodburn, Harriet "Hattie" Frenton, Hazel Frenton, and Brianna, Kenzie, and Chase Snider; two great grandchildren; mother, Ruth Ann Boys; sister, Beverly McLaughlin, and his furry companion, Daisy. He was preceded in death by his wife of 41 years, Diana L. Boys; father, William C. Boys; his daughter, Samantha Snider; and his beloved dog, Dodge.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Genesis Hospice for their exceptional compassion and care, especially to Kesha Pettiford and Jeremy Shriner.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Genesis Hospice.

Family and friends are invited to honor Bret’s life during a memorial visitation on Friday, May 8, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Brucker and Kishler Funeral Home, 985 N. 21st St., Newark. 

To celebrate Bret’s lifelong love of sports, guests are encouraged to wear Ohio State or Cleveland Browns attire.