Shirley Mackey

Shirley, 78, of Danville passed away peacefully, early Thursday morning on January 23, 2025. She was born in Greencastle, on September 17, 1946, a daughter of the late George and Elizabeth (Mendenhall) Fellows. 

Shirley grew up in New Winchester, where she and her sister, Carol and several cousins, went and did everything together, and was also a strong presence in her brother Greg's life and upbringing. She attended school there from 1st grade through 11th, finishing her senior year in Danville with the class of 1964. Shirley met the love of her life, Paul "Eddie" Mackey while he was on leave from Vietnam, and although their courtship was brief, they celebrated 55 years of marriage before his passing in August 2021. 

Shirley was very family oriented. When her kids were still in school, she enjoyed being involved with the marching band and sports helping them earn their way to competitions, then enjoying the music and energy as they competed. She loved music, especially the Beach Boys. In church, she'd sing from the hymnals and play the bells. Shirley had many hobbies and interests; playing Bingo at the VFW in Pittsboro or the Eagles in Plainfield, and playing Euchre with friends and family, tutoring children when a little extra help with their studies was necessary. She was a calming and reassuring presence when she worked ER registration at Hendricks Regional Hospital from which she proudly retired. She was an avid gardener and canner of tomatoes and green beans. She loved to cook and family and friends loved to partake in her delicious dishes, everyone talked about her amazing food, her ham salad was famous in Danville.When she wasn't in the garden you could find her sitting with her crewel embroidery, or reading a good mystery novel or some christian fiction or just sitting on her porch watching the hummingbirds, which she absolutely adored. She especially loved being with all of her grandchildren and great grandchildren, they gave her great joy. 

Shirley is survived by her 3 children, Paula Zapp of Coatesville, Shannon Chastain of Kokomo, and David (Amber) Mackey of Greencastle; grandchildren, Tyler Smith, Bailey Hungerle, Kaitlyn Crow, Olivia and Emmaline Mackey; great grandchildren, Riley, Grayson, Parker, Ricky and Daniel; sister, Carol (Max) Roeder, and brother, Greg (Donna) Fellows. Also missing Shirley are numerous extended family members and friends. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, January 29, 2025 from 4-7pm at the Helton & Harris Funeral Home, Danville, where a service will be held the following day at 12:00 pm with an hour visitation prior. Burial will follow in New Winchester Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Shirley's name Alzheimer's Research and Foundation.