Shirley M. (Dalton) Gardner, 78 entered into the joy of the Lord Tuesday, September 8, 2026, after a long medical journey.
She was born on November 12, 1947, and grew up in Ashland, Ohio playing piano and dancing, as well as participating in clubs including Girl Scouts and 4-H. Her parents, brother, and her moved to Wooster, Ohio in the early 60’s, where she and her family were active members of the United Methodist Church.
After graduating from Wooster High School in 1966, Shirley attended Kent State University for several years, worked at ATI, and was offered the position as Vice President of Advertising at Peoples Federal Savings & Loan where she worked until 1981.
She married Terry Gardner in 1973 and spent many enjoyable evenings listening to her favorite band, Good Company.
Shirley loved making all kinds of crafts and attending craft shows throughout the area. She especially enjoyed sewing, making Christmas ornaments with her mom, to give to family and friends, and creating counted cross stitch pictures.
In her spare time, she enjoyed being an expert costume maker, chauffeur to dance competitions, band jobs, musicals, and overall #1 supporter for her daughter, Amy. She was also a lover of animals, especially dogs, and enjoyed each pet that the family had throughout the years.
Shirley was one of the kindest, strongest, selfless, compassionate, and resilient people in the world. Whether it was volunteering her time and talents to Central Christian Church and various service clubs including the Madisonburg Lions Club, Wooster High School Music Parents, or simply lending an ear to a friend or family member over the phone, she always took the time to help others and make them feel loved in the process.
Words cannot adequately express the amount of love, gratitude, and admiration her daughter and family have for her, and she will be deeply missed.
Shirley is survived by her daughter Amy Gardner of Wooster; brother David (Pam) Dalton of Wooster; nieces Brianna (Nick) Fugate of Wooster, Summer (Lauren) Dalton of Medina, Marissa (Lee) Ledford of Wooster, and Lynda Odenkirk of Connecticut; nephew Rob Odenkirk of North Carolina; and many cousins throughout the country.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday, September 25, 2026, at the McIntire, Bradham & Sleek Funeral Home, 216 E. Larwill St., Wooster with Pastor Nathan Ward officiating. Interment will follow in Sherwood Memorial Gardens.
Friends will be received on Thursday, September 24, 2026, from 5:00-7:00 PM at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to PAWS for WCDS 5694 Burbank Rd., Wooster, OH 44691 or to the Salvation Army Wooster Corps 437 S. Market St., Wooster, OH 44691.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mcintirebradhamsleek.com
My condolences to the family. I knew Terry from high school, and I know Pam Dalton. My sympathies to all.
I knew Shirley and graduated with her. I also knew Terry. My thoughts and condolences to her family and all who knew and loved her.
Dear Amy & Dave, Shirley was my early childhood friend from Pleasant St. School in Ashland, OH. She was the sweetest person who towered over me. While attending school we shared Brownies, Girl Scouts & at First United Methodist Church, formed many memories. When I got my driver’s license, Barbie Smith & I drove to Wooster to see her but… she was not home so visited with her mother. We never did make a connection. Barbie just passed in August but we still often spoke of finding our dear friend. This morning, I opened to read of area deaths. It wasn’t the usual post I use, but when I looked down, there was Shirley’s name. I instantly thought of Barbie & could hear her say with a smile, “I found her!” Not that we are lost, but knowing where our true home is, comforts those who believe. I do extend great sympathy for your loss. I am so blessed & honored having had Shirley share my youth. Till we meet again my old friend.
So sorry to hear about your mom, Amy. Take care.
So sad for your tremendous loss Amy.
Such fond memories from years past.
The times we enjoyed” Good Company” were many. You and your mother always involved.
May you find comfort in all the good memories.
Sending caring thoughts and prayers for all.