"Our family met Shirley and her Mother Ruth years ago at the Fairmount Christian Church. We just clicked as friends. We were in touch for several years. When Ruth died she left me a beautiful necklace in her well. We sent Christmas cards to each other for several years and then I lost touch of Shirley. We knew she was very close to her brother and sister. She was a wonderful Christian friend. We have missed her friendship these last years. The picture of her is just how I remember her. Sending our prayers to her family and her friends."
In loving memory of
Shirley Ford
November 8, 1937 - August 29, 2017
After a courageous battle with cancer, Shirley Ford passed away on August 29, 2017. A faithful servant of God, Shirley was a lifelong member of the Episcopal Church.
Born Nov. 8, 1937 to Ruth and Alfred Webb, Shirley was raised in Gas City, graduated from Mississinewa High School, and attended Indiana University. Many summers of her youth were spent being a camp counselor for the Diocese of Northern Indiana Summer Camp
She loved fashion and jewelry, and enjoyed working at various retail stores, especially Roesslers Jewelers in Marion. Often, she watched her nieces and nephews, and loved them as if they were her own. To say she loved animals was an understatement. Shirley doted on her pets, often taking care of dogs who went for vacation and ended up staying.
One of her favorite pastimes was horse racing, and she enjoyed regular family trips to Lexington with her sister and brother-in-law, Margie and Bob. Another joy was the time she spent with family, especially summers at Wawasee. She spent a good part of her life as caregiver for her mother and brother.
Although her illness made it necessary for her to be in a nursing home in her later years, she lived with a hopeful, positive attitude. Funny and kind, she loved people and made many friends within the staff and residents, some of whom she considered family. Where some people might complain about having to use a walker, Shirley was grateful for this invention which allowed her to visit friends and her sister Margie, most of all. The family appreciates the many friends and staff at Colonial Oaks who enriched Shirleys life.
She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Alfred Webb, Jr.; and sister, Fay Webb Walters. She is survived by her sister, Marguerite Murrell, her two nieces, Gay Houston (Eric); Diana Gardner (Jack); nephew, Daniel Walters; and great nieces and nephews, Amaris Houston Ridenour (Adam); Evan Houston; Regan Reese; and Riley Reese.
Remarkable. If one word could describe Shirley, it would be that. She was an incredible daughter, sister, and aunt who saw good in everyone and who leaves a legacy of faith and indomitable spirit that will live on in the hearts of all who loved her.
A private memorial service will be held at a later date. Donations may be made to Marion-Grant County Humane Society.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Armes-Hunt Funeral Home and Cremation Services College Park Chapel, 4601 S. Western Ave., Marion, Indiana 46953. Online condolences may be left at www.armeshuntfuneralhome.com.
Tributes
"Shirley had the best smile ever, and was always willing to help out st events. She slso wss more then willing to help out those need. Heaven will shine brigther, as her light left this world. We offer our lobe and condolence. Love from St Paul Church Gas City."
"Shirley will be missed by all thst knew her at St Paul Gss City. Shirley smile is what we will remener most, as well ss helping out those in need. Heaven light will shire brighter. Rest in Peace"
"We met Shirley several years ago through the Episcopal Church. Shirley was a very dear and sweet lady. We enjoyed her friendship and attending parish events with her. We send our condolences and prayers to Shirley's family. May God comfort you and bless you with His peace during your time of loss. Janet, Emilie & Susan Gilbert (St. Paul Episcopal Church, Gas City & Gethsemane Episcopal Church, Marion)."