Shirley Gwin Obituary
Shirley Rae Gwin, 84, of Indianapolis, passed away on December 23, 2024. She was born on July 31, 1940, in Terre Haute, Indiana, to the late Raymond and Mildred Sanford.
Known for her friendly demeanor, Shirley never met a stranger. Her lively personality drew people in, making everyone feel as though they were part of her family. It was not uncommon to find her surrounded by friends at a local coffee shop, dancing to live music, or cheering for her beloved Pacers.
She loved to immerse herself in new experiences, spending days on the streets and beaches of Key West and in New York City. She was always on the go; there was nothing that could stop her. Shirley found happiness in the company of animals, especially her dogs and cats. Her home was always filled with love and laughter.
Shirley is preceded in passing by her husband of 50 years, Major Eugene B. Gwin.
Shirley is survived by her daughter, Nancy Gwin, and son-in-law, Mark Swanson; her grandson, Zachary Gwin; her sister, Carolyn Sue Horn; and nephews Ryan Horn and Mark Horn.
A Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 9, from 12 noon to 2 pm, with a Funeral Service to follow at 2 pm, and Flanner Buchanan - Oaklawn, 9700 Allisonville Road. Shirley's Final Resting Place will be at Oaklawn Memorial Gardens Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please make a memorial donation in Shirley’s name to IndyHumane
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
9700 Allisonville Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46250
People and places connected with Shirley
Recent Obituaries
Memories and Condolences
for Shirley Gwin
Tell your own story about Shirley
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
How you can show support
Make a Donation
in Shirley Gwin's name
How to support Shirley's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Shirley Gwin's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
Sponsored