Area Agency on Aging Honors 2026 Outstanding Senior Citizens

  Posted on September 1, 2026

ONTARIO, OH - The Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging, Inc. honored outstanding senior citizens from across its nine-county service area during the 2026 Outstanding Senior Citizen Awards, held August 26^th in Ontario, Ohio. Approximately 100 guests attended the event to celebrate the accomplishments, contributions, and lasting impact of this year’s honorees.

Since 1976, the Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging has recognized outstanding senior citizens who make a difference in their communities and demonstrate a positive image of aging. 

Duana Patton, CEO of the Area Agency on Aging welcomed guests to the ceremony, which was also led by Cody Albert, Corporate Board President of the Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging, Inc.

Honorees represent the communities of Ashland, Crawford, Huron, Knox, Marion, Morrow, Richland, Seneca, and Wyandot counties.

The 2026 Outstanding Senior Citizen Award recipients are:

• Ashland County: Charles and Melody Barnes
• Crawford County: Mohsen “Mo” Ressallat
• Huron County: Herschel and Ruth Honeycutt
• Knox County: Margaret “Peggy” Dunn
• Marion County: Barbara Mead
• Morrow County: Chris and Hyla Skudder
• Richland County: Sidney “Sid” Hall and Nancy Hall, posthumously
• Seneca County: Michael Porter
• Wyandot County: Bonnie L. Conley

Award recipients are nominated by individuals or organizations involved with seniors and are selected by the Area Agency on Aging based on the impact of their contributions and accomplishments within their communities.

“Each year, we are honored to recognize older adults who have generously shared their time, talents, and dedication to strengthen their communities,” said Duana Patton, Chief Executive Officer of the Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging, Inc. “These honorees are inspiring examples of the many ways older adults continue to lead, serve, and positively impact the lives of those around them.”

The event was also attended by family and friends as well as local and state elected officials representing communities throughout the nine-county service area. Proclamations recognizing the honorees were presented by elected officials, including a senator and representatives, mayors, and county commissioners.

About the Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging

The Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging, Inc. is dedicated to supporting older adults and individuals with disabilities in living healthy, safe, and independent lives within their communities. Through a network of programs, services, and community partnerships, the Agency works to enhance quality of life and promote independence throughout its nine-county service area.