Ruth Shirley

Ruth Shirley, 98, of St. Joseph, Illinois, passed away at 10:48 pm, Sunday (July 7, 2024) at Amber Glen Alzheimer’s Special Care Center, Urbana, Illinois.  Graveside services will be held Saturday, July 13, 2024 at 10:00 AM at Mt. Olive Cemetery, Mayview.  David Barcus will officiate.  Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand Ave, St. Joseph, is in charge of arrangements.

Born September 2, 1925, Ruth Biner Walker was the 7th child born to the late Jacob Arthur and Catherine Blevins Walker.  She married John David Shirley on February 24, 1946.  He preceded in death March 20, 2011.  Surviving are several special nieces and nephews.

Ruth was self-employed most of her working years.  She and her sister, Pauline, owned and operated The M & S Variety Store in St. Joseph, beginning in 1955.  As the years passed the shop was renamed to The Sisters’ Shoppe and Ruth and Pauline worked together for more than 50 years.  After Ruth’s retirement, Pauline continued working and added Walkers’ Hallmark and Ruth continued helping her sister until Pauline’s retirement in 2008.

Aunt Ruthie, as she was known by her nieces and nephews, was always happy.  During her working years she was active in the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce and St. Joseph Women’s Club.  She was a member of the St. Joseph Church of Christ.

Memorials may be made to the St. Joseph Township – Swearingen Memorial Library, c/o Susan McKinney, Librarian, 203 3rd St. St Joseph, IL 61873.

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