Shirley Spence

SPENCE Shirley Sugden, 84, of Lexington, passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2013. She was the beloved wife for 62 years of John M. Spence, although their relationship goes all the way back to her birth in 1928 in Pittsburgh, PA. She is survived by her daughter Carol Lea Spence, sister Barbara Sugden (David) Harrison, niece Carolyn (Scott) Richard, nephew Steven (Leona) Harrison, four grandnieces and a grand nephew, and two wonderful long-time friends Elizabeth Hunter and Linda Walters. She was preceded in death by her parents, Nellie and Peter J. Sugden, sister Jean Sugden Hoover, and four dogs, Pal, Sandy, Poppy, and Maggie. Shirley, also known as Lea and Suggie to her friends in Pittsburgh, was a member of the Civil Air Patrol during WWII and studied business at the University of Pittsburgh, where her excellent grades brought her installation into the AQS honors fraternity. She retired at 65 from General Electric Mobile Communications. Athletic, Shirley was an outstanding bowler, an avid golfer and a walker. She loved nature and animals. She was a Master Gardener and a dedicated volunteer at The Arboretum. She was a member of Southern Hills United Methodist Church. Shirley's family wishes to thank the staff at Pine Meadows Healthcare for caring for her with such love and expertise. They lightened her final burden and brought her happiness, as evidenced by her beautiful smile. We are truly grateful for them all. Funeral services will be at 11am Saturday at Milward-Southland with interment in Lexington Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5-8pm Friday. Contributions suggested to the Alzheimer's Association or The Arboretum. www.milwardfuneral.com