James W. Shirley Sr.

1933 - 2016

James W. Shirley Sr., 83, of North Huntingdon, died Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2016. He was born Jan. 4, 1933, in Harrison City, a son of the late Herbert and Florence Good Shirley. Jim was the founding owner of the James W. Shirley Funeral Home in Circleville, beginning his career in 1960. After the passing of both parents by the age of eight, his older siblings continued to raise him. These circumstances along with others helped lead him to becoming a self-made man. He was the last of his siblings, preceded in death by his brothers, Herbert, Russell, Robert and Morris; and one sister, Beulah Dull. His life's journey was never taken alone. He had many supporters and friends within the Norwin community throughout his life. There are too many to acknowledge by name, but heartfelt gratitude to all those who helped him along the way. He was a longtime member of the Norwin Lions Club, Norwin Meals On Wheels, Norwin Chamber of Commerce and Circleville United Methodist Church; he was a veteran of the Korean War and served on many other boards and organizations throughout the years. He is survived by his wife, Jennie Zacur Shirley; son, James W. Shirley Jr. and his wife, Pam; two daughters, Patricia Blosat and her husband, Jim, Pamela Kukich and her husband, Dr. Melvin Kukich; grandchildren, Ryan Bushik, Melanie Kukich, Jonathan Shirley, serving in the Marines at Camp Lejeune, Steven and Josh Greenawalt (Lindsay); and great-granddaughter, Parker Bushik, who always brought a smile to his face. He is also survived by his close friends, Richard and Mary Gaydos, Carolyn and George Haller; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Friends will be received from 1 to 7 p.m. Friday at the JAMES W. SHIRLEY FUNERAL HOME, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon. A funeral service will be held 10 a.m. Saturday in the funeral home chapel, with Pastor Ray Lyon officiating. Interment will be private in Brush Creek Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations may be made to the Norwin Lions Club, Norwin Meals On Wheels or the Norwin Community Resource Center. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.