Shirley Paolello

Shirley A. Paolello, known lovingly as “Grandma the Great,” passed away peacefully in Cincinnati on October 7, 2024, at the age of 92. Born on February 10, 1932, in Cincinnati, she was a beacon of love and strength to all who knew her.

Shirley graduated from East Vocational High School in 1951, which laid the foundation for a life filled with dedication to family, friends, and community. She was a proud member of the Cheviot Elks, Cheviot Eagles, and the Red Hats Clubs, where her warm personality and infectious spirit endeared her to many. In her leisure time, Shirley found joy in sewing, creating cherished "Sock Monkeys" for her family and friends.

She is survived by her loving children, Kathleen (Greg) Schmitt, Ronald (Rose) Paolello, Diane (Steve) Clemens, Daniel (Dianna) Paolello, and Ami (Steve) Wilkins. As a grandmother, Shirley had a profound impact on her grandchildren: Sheree Dardis, Rheanna Willen, Tom Hutzel, Jill Schmitt, Ron Paolello, Pat Hutzel, Jeff Schmitt, Amanda Paolello, Ryan Clemens, Beth Brock, Sarah Thomas, Greg Schmitt, Jeremy Burnett, Nicole Marco, Stephanie Melchiorri, David Hutzel, Tony Paolello, Tyler Paolello, Kristina Lammert, Vinny Melchiorri, Megan Paolello, Kori Dawson, Kyle Paolello, Nick Paolello, Halee Suttle, Nathan Wilkins and great-grandmother of 59 great-grandchildren and 2 great great-grandchildren. Each of them carries a piece of her legacy forward.

Shirley was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ronald N. Paolello; her grandson Brad Clemens; her siblings Armand (Nerissa) Meyung, Rita (Richard) Kehrt, Arthur (Patricia) Meyung, James Meyung, and Thomas (Shirley) Meyung; and her parents, Robert and Marie Meyung. Additionally, she is survived by her sister-in-law, Bonnie Meyung, brother-in law Phil Paolello and Jim (Joy) Paolello and a special connection to her nephew "Cousin Brother," Steve (Sheila) Melchorri.

Her family and friends will gather to honor her life with visitation on October 14, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM at St. Dominic Church (Gathering Space) in Cincinnati, followed by a Mass beginning at 10:00 AM. Shirley's warm heart and vibrant spirit will be profoundly missed but fondly remembered by all she touched. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of Cincinnati or the Alzheimer's Association.