Wanda B. Shirley

Wanda Margerith Bennett Shirley was born on March 24, 1916 in Williamston, Michigan. She passed away on August 3, 2017 in Brandon, Florida at the age of 101. She was predeceased by her parents Beth and Floyd Bennett, husband Forrest, sister Helene Bishop, and daughter Patricia Farrar. Her survivors include daughter Pamela Ellison (Jack); grandchildren Allan Lilley, Brandon Wiley (Myrlen), and Joel Ellison; great grandchildren Kody and Alyssa Lilley; and son-in -law James Farrar.

Wanda was raised in Michigan and attended Emmanuel Missionary College where she met her future husband, Forrest. They were married on February 10, 1938 and shared seventy-five blessed years of marriage.

Her professional career began teaching kindergarten through the eighth grade for several years in a one room school in rural Michigan. She attended Eastern Michigan College and received her B.A. and M.A. in elementary education. She continued to teach first grade for over thirty years and retired in 1977. Student teachers from the University of Michigan were mentored by her. While in Michigan she was a member of the educational sorority Kappa Delta Kappa and continued to be a member once she and Forrest moved to Florida.

She was a devout Christian and loved her church. While in Michigan she was a children’s Sabbath school teacher, an adult Sabbath school superintendent, pianist, and a member of the choir. She not only played the piano but also the violin.

Wanda treasured her family. She had a wonderful marriage to Forrest and after he passed away, her remaining four years were met with loneliness for him. Her children and grandchildren meant the world to her and she was so happy when they would visit her. Affectionately known in the family as the “Matriarch”, she was always available to give her love, comfort, support, and advice whenever needed.

Wanda and her bright sweet smile will be greatly missed by everyone that knew her.