Trending
HOWLAND -- We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Shirley A. Hare, who died peacefully Friday, April 19, 2024, at Hospice House in Poland. She was loved and surrounded by her sister, Gloria Jean Burnside, and her nieces, all of Columbus. Shirley was 89 years old and a lifetime resident of the Niles / Warren area.
Born in Youngstown on Jan. 9, 1935, Shirley was a loving sister, aunt, great-aunt, cherished friend and neighbor. She approached everyone she met with a smile and kindness that could light up a conversation. Her interactions were filled with laughter, honesty, grace, humility and acceptance. Shirley was the most generous and thoughtful person. She loved celebrating Christmas and giving gifts to her friends and family, but especially to her nieces and nephew, and eventually her great-nieces and great-nephew. She would shop for hours to find the right gift. Her wrappings were elaborate and festive. She never forgot a birthday and sent a card for every holiday -- and it always included a dollar bill for good luck.
The consummate collector, Shirley had just started a stamp collection. Her collections included Hummels, Santas, Boyd's Bears, coins, Memories of Yesterday figurines, calendars, Christmas ornaments, costume jewelry and stamps. She displayed many of them in her home because they brought her joy. She was an avid reader and read all the latest from her favorite authors, David Silva, David Baldacci, Nora Roberts and Janet Evanovich, to name a few.
She enjoyed working and often said she would still be working if her health had been better. Work began at the Niles Fire Brick Company, two weeks after high school graduation; she worked there for nearly 15 years. She left for an opportunity with General Motors in Lordstown as one of the executive secretaries in the transportation department. She shared that this was the best decision she ever made! She retired just before turning 60; however, she found retirement boring and went back to work at Bahmer's Pharmacy and the Avalon Inn, which she enjoyed immensely.
Shirley is survived by her youngest sister, Gloria Jean Burnside; nieces, Lori (Blake) Godard and Kim Pizzuti; nephew, Jeff (April) Burnside; as well as cherished great-nieces and great-nephew, Sierra (Garrett) Litten, Riley (Tim) Brown, Nicholas Pizzuti, Lexi Pizzuti and Alyssa Burnside.
Shirley was preceded in death by her mother, Helen Hare; her brother, Richard Hare; her sister, Marlene Hare; and her brother-in-law, Dennis Burnside.
There are no words for the immense loss and void we feel, as Shirley always had an open ear to anyone in need of comfort or company. Her memory will forever be cherished in the hearts of everyone who knew her.
In lieu of a funeral service, the family will hold a private memorial dinner in her honor.
The family is in the care of Lane Funeral Home, Roberts-Clark Chapel. Online condolences can be made at www.lanefuneralhomes.com.
(special notice)