Shirley J. McLean

Shirley J. McLean, age 91, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2025. She was born on August 30, 1934, and lived a full and beautiful life centered around faith, family, and friendship.

Shirley was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 65 years, Dean McLean, her parents Agnes and Arthur Marks, and cherished grandson, Jack Walencewicz. She is survived by her brother Jim (Dorothy) Marks and her seven loving children: Nancy (Ron Doerr) McLean, Ron (Patty) McLean, Susan (Matt) Walencewicz, Mick (Cathy) McLean, Linda (Brent Ungar) Telle, Mary Jane (Jim) Pajk, and Bill (Jenny) McLean. She was the proud grandmother of 20 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her endless pride and joy.

Shirley was a 1952 graduate of Central Catholic High School and a 1955 graduate of the Mercy School of Nursing. Shirley worked as a registered nurse, where she was known for her compassion and care for others, especially children.

Shirley was a devoted member of St. Benedict’s Catholic Church and the Rosary Altar Society. She was also active in the Red Hat Society, Canton Gyro, and the Sunny Days Garden Club. An especially precious group was the “Card Club” made up of six couples who were lifelong friends.

Above all, Shirley was a devoted wife, an amazing mother, and a loving, active grandmother. Her strength, kindness, joy for life and selfless focus on her loved ones will be forever remembered by her family and friends. Even after health struggles the past several years, she remained kind, grateful and smiling.

A special thank you to The Gables of Canton and Elara Care Hospice staff for the years of loving care for Shirley .... and appreciation for her wit, sarcasm and eye rolls!

Calling hours for Shirley will be held on Monday, October 20 from 4-7 p.m. at Kreighbaum-Sanders Funeral Home, 4041 Cleveland Ave. S., Canton. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, October 21 at 11 a.m. at St. Benedict Catholic Church, 2207 3rd St. SE, Canton, with the Rev. Benson Okpara officiating, with burial to follow in Forest Hill Cemetery. A celebration luncheon will be held afterwards. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice in her memory.

www.sandersfuneralhomes.com 

(330) 484-2525