Elbert Ralph Hoskins 74, more affectionately known as Bub, passed into the arms of our Lord in the early hours of Friday, December 5th, 2025. After family said their goodbyes, Bub passed peacefully with both his sister, Judy McGinnis of Sciotoville, and his longtime partner, Lisa Irwin of Portsmouth, by his side.
Bub was born to Nellie “Pearl” (neé Cooper) and Elbert “Ralph” Hoskins in Portsmouth, Ohio on February 26th, 1951. He graduated in the Summer of 1969 from East High School, where he was known as a legend for his talent on the basketball court and his affable personality. Bub worked many years at Haverhill Chemical working his way up to supervisor.
Wallflower is a term that never would have been given to Bub. He was the life of the party and was known for his quick quips and humor. To know Bub, was to know laughter, loyalty, and a care deeper than one could even know. He would be the first person to give you the shirt off of his back. This was evident in how much he cared for and spent time with his three daughters Allison, Lindsey, and Kelsie, as well as his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They were his pride and joy. Bub spent the last decade with the love of his life, Lisa, and their pup, Sadie Mae, who he made sure would not want for anything.
In his free time, Bub liked to golf with his buddies, hang out at the Stadium Lunch, and spend time poolside with Lisa and Sadie. He greatly enjoyed fishing and was known for his Lake Erie Walleye. He was a friend to all and was even cracking jokes in his last days.
Bub is survived by his partner Lisa Irwin of Portsmouth; his sister Judy (Steve Suter) McGinnis of Sciotoville; his daughters Allison Jones of Versailles, KY; Lindsey (Adam) Hall of Ostrander; and Kelsie Hoskins of Columbus; Lisa’s son Jake (Madeleine) Lavender of Grove City; his nephew Eric (Lisa McCain) Lewis of Portsmouth; his grandchildren Brittany, Hanna, Chad, Chase, Faith, Everleigh, Gray, Zoey, Mikey, Whitley, and Wade; his great-grandchildren Isabela, and Eli; his great-nephew Josh; and his great-nieces Erica, Ramsie, and Maylie. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends alike.
Bub is preceded in death by his parents, Pearl and Ralph; his son, Lance Jefferson Hoskins; and his beloved nephew, Jason Hoskins.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Lisa and Bub’s families would like to extend a special thank you for all of the help from the Portsmouth Fire Department over the last few months. All of the fire people at the Hilltop Station became like an extension of the family and Bub’s care team. Words cannot express our gratitude. Also a special thanks to all of the staff at Concord Rehabilitation for their help and attention to Bub during his stay.
Melcher Hammer Funeral Home in Portsmouth is assisting the family with the arrangements.
