- Visitation
Memorial Visitation
Monday, January 2, 2023
11:00 am to 1:00 pm
Meridith Funeral Home, Lebanon, IL.
- Full Obituary
Barbara I. Shirley, 86, of Lebanon, IL, passed away on Wednesday, December 27, 2022, at Clinton Manor Living Center.
Barbara was born on March 16, 1936, in Finney, KY, to Herbert and Jimmie (nee Huffman) Bowles. She married Elzie Shirley on November 12, 1955, in Glasgow, KY; a marriage lasting 67 beautiful years.
Barbara grew up in Kentucky and graduated from Austin-Tracy High School in 1954. After marriage, her and Elzie lived in various places through his service in the Air Force, eventually settling in Lebanon, where they have been since 1968. She thought her husband was hysterical (usually) and much to the embarrassment of their kids, she and Elzie were always very affectionate.
Barbara was known as a fabulous cook and was very proud of her cake decorating skills. An extremely talented lady, she was a gifted seamstress, had a keen eye for decorating, was an avid gardener; planting flowers and vegetables, and managed finances well.
She was brave, smart, funny, always kindhearted; wanting to assist all animals, children, or anyone in need of anything.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Herbert and Jimmie Bowles; brother, James Willis Bowles (in infancy).
Barbara is survived by her loving husband, Elzie Shirley, Lebanon, IL; daughters, Teva (Randy) Steeno, Glen Carbon, IL, Venita Shirley, Boston, MA; multiple beloved nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Clinton Manor Activities Fund, P.O. Box 19, New Baden, IL, 62265.
Memorial Visitation: Monday, January 2, 2023, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, at Meridith Funeral Home, Lebanon, IL.
Meridith Funeral Home, Lebanon, IL.
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