Submitted by Weil Kahn Funeral Home
Mary-Bob Rubenstein, beloved wife of Jack C. Rubenstein, passed away on Sunday, August 2, 2026, at the age of 80. Born in Fremont, OH, Mary-Bob was the loving daughter of the late Martha (Wise) and William Mathews. She spent her childhood in Lima and Indianapolis. She was preceded in death by her brothers James Mathews (Lynne) of East Jordan, MI and Buck Mathews of Columbus, OH, and is survived by many cherished nieces, nephews and cousins.
Mary-Bob was the devoted mother of Brett Rubenstein (Carolyn) of Denver, CO; Scott Rubenstein (Amy) of Cincinnati, OH; and Billie Diamond (Joe) of Glencoe, IL. Nothing brought her greater joy than being “Nana” to Jackson and Piper Rubenstein; Lilly, Phoebe and Maggie Rubenstein; and Ava, Maribelle and Shea Diamond; all of whom she adored beyond measure.
Mary-Bob attended the University of Wyoming. The West never left her heart. She carried with her a lifelong appreciation for open spaces, the environment, natural beauty, and the wonder of the world around her.
She deeply loved her family, nature and life itself. Mary-Bob possessed a rare gift for making people feel heard. She listened with genuine interest, cared deeply about the lives and families of others, and was always ready to lend a helping hand. Friends and strangers alike found in her a compassionate listener, an enthusiastic supporter, and a steadfast friend.
Her commitment to community service was reflected in her involvement with the Junior League of Cincinnati and Leadership of Cincinnati Class 30 (the best class ever, as she would proudly remind you). She was actively involved in her children’s lives as a den mother, school volunteer, sideline cheerleader, and tireless supporter of every endeavor.
Mary-Bob co-founded Showstoppers Talent Agency, Inc., where she spent more than 25 years helping create memorable events and joyful occasions for countless families and organizations. Through her work, she brought people together to celebrate milestones, achievements, and special moments.
Following her retirement from Showstoppers, Mary-Bob and Jack discovered a new and deeply meaningful passion through their involvement with Cincinnati College Preparatory Academy. Together they dedicated themselves to the school’s mission as tutors, board members, advocates, and generous supporters. The relationships they built and the lives they touched through the school became among the most rewarding chapters of their lives.
Mary-Bob’s love of nature was legendary among family and friends. She was endlessly fascinated by the wildlife that shared her backyard: turtles, raccoons, deer, groundhogs, birds, and countless other creatures. She was the person everyone called when an animal needed rescuing, a bird fell from its nest, or a wild creature needed care. Over the years she raised and nurtured an astonishing variety of animals, delighting in each one and finding joy in every opportunity to help them thrive.
Above all, Mary-Bob will be remembered for her generous spirit, her boundless curiosity, her unwavering devotion to family and community, and her ability to find wonder in both people and nature. She lived with kindness, purpose, humor, and enthusiasm, leaving a lasting imprint on all who knew and loved her.
Funeral services were held on Thursday, August 6 at Weil Kahn Funeral Home. She is buried at United Jewish Cemetery Montgomery.
In lieu of flowers please consider a memorial contribution to “The Friends of CCPA”, Greyhound Adoption of Greater Cincinnati, or any animal rescue organization of your choice.
