Shirley J. Stretchbery

Shirley J. Stretchbery (Fair) 78, passed away peacefully in her home on January 10, 2009 surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Toledo on May 9, 1930 to William and Helen Fair. ? ??????????????? Shirley was a graduate of Central Catholic High School, class of 1948 where she held the position of class Vice-President. She graduated from the University of Toledo in 1952 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree and was member of the Chi Omega Sorority of which she held her membership for 51 years. She continued her education at the University of Michigan graduating in 1973 with a Master of Social Work Degree. During her schooling, she was employed at the former Lamson's Department Store. During her professional career she worked as a caseworker and eventual Foster Care Supervisor for the Lucas County Children's Services and, supervisor for Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Northwest Ohio prior to her retirement in 1990. ? ??????????????? Shirley was very active in her community. She was a member of the Toledo Chapter of Business and Professional Women's Club serving as 1st Vice -President and Recording Secretary, the National Association of Social Workers, the Academy of Certified Social Workers, and was a Licensed Independent Social Worker. ? ??????????????? She was a lifelong resident of West Toledo where she enjoyed her many friends. Her hobbies included sewing, bowling, golfing, reading, tending to her lovely gardens and also loved animals. Friends and family especially enjoyed visiting in her spectacularly beautiful back yard, which is filled with rare Hosta and rolling beds of ever blooming seasonal flowers with vibrant colors. Shirley was fiercely independent and was passionately committed to encouraging and supporting others to discover their own strengths. She was an exceptional advisor and guide to many, especially young professionals who have all benefited from their relationship with her and by her example.? She volunteered at the United Way of Greater Toledo and the Arthritis Foundation. She enjoyed many vacations at Devil's Lake. Her most cherished trip took place in 1977 when she traveled through Germany, Austria and Switzerland. ? ??????????????? Shirley's children and grandchildren had an extraordinary bond with their mother and grandmother. Her boundless love and memories will be cherished forever. We are all honored to have been part of her life. ? ??????????????? She is survived by her loving family, children, Karen (Rick) Vest of Toledo, Brian (Melanie) Stretchbery of Bowling Green, Jean (Greg) Elkins of Temperance; grandchildren, Lauren Vest, Nicolas, Sarah, and Dylan Stretchbery, Ryan and Kyle Elkins; best friend, Ruth Baumann, her special sorority sisters of Chi Omega and pets Molly and Riley.? She was preceded in death by her parents, husband James M. Stretchbery Jr, son, Mark Stretchbery, and her infant son. ? Her family wishes to extend special thanks to Dr. Margaret Durkin M.D., Dr. Andrew Seiwert M.D. ?and Shirley's team at hospice, especially Jane her nurse, and Marilyn her social worker. ? A celebration of Shirley's life will begin at 12:00 Noon on Friday January 16, 2009 at the Toledo Botanical Garden Conference Center, 5403 Elmer Road. and will be immediately followed by a luncheon and time to gather with her family. Those wishing to make memorial contributions are asked to consider the Bethany House, P.O. Box 80596 Toledo Ohio, 43608-0596 or Hospice of Northwest Ohio. In celebration of Shirley's life, an engraved brick will be placed in Wildwood Preserve Park. Arrangements entrusted to the Ansberg-West Funeral Directors, 419-472-7633