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Shirley Lones Obituary
Shirley A. Lones, 86, of Rushville, Ohio, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born in Lancaster, Ohio on July 11, 1938, Shirley lived a life rooted in faith, devotion and service to others.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Ernie and Loretta Hanna of West Rushville, Ohio.
Shirley dedicated more than 20 years of her life to Fairfield Union Schools as a bus driver, study hall monitor and cook - roles through which she touched the lives of countless students and staff with her kindness and quiet strength.
She was a devoted Christian and lifelong member of Drumms Lutheran Church of Rushville, where she served faithfully as the church organist for 40 years. Her love of music, especially sacred hymns, was a constant thread in her life and a blessing to her congregation.
She is survived by her beloved husband of 71 years, Fred Leland Lones; sister, Karen (Carl) Ardrey of Rushville; and her children, Gene (Cathy) Lones of Thornville, Brenda Lones (Mark) Zwoll of Rushville and Todd (Colleen) Lones of Thornville. Shirley was a cherished grandmother to six grandchildren, Alicia (Sean) Dennison, Marissa (Evan) Wagner, Jennifer (Richard) Sluss, Kim (Colin) Osterman, Darrin (Emily) Shuttleworth and Jacob (Laura) Lones; and twelve great-grandchildren. Her circle of love also included many nieces, nephews, cousins and lifelong friends.
Family was Shirley's greatest joy. She found delight in sewing, quilting and cooking - often bringing everyone together around the table or a lovingly stitched gift. Her warmth, faith and unwavering love leave a lasting imprint on all who knew her.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 2nd from 6 - 8 PM at Morgan Funeral Home, Bremen, Ohio. Funeral service will take place Thursday, July 3rd at 10 AM at Drumms Lutheran Church in Rushville, where there will be visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Drumms Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association in Shirley's honor.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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