NILES - Shirley A. Stephens, 89, passed away unexpectedly Friday evening March 5, 2021 at the St. Elizabeth Health Center in Youngstown. Shirley was born in Niles, Ohio on November 20, 1931 the daughter of David and Lydia Howells and lived there her entire life.
Shirley was a 1949 graduate of Niles McKinley High School and a 1952 graduate of the Youngstown Hospital Association School of Nursing. She was employed as a registered nurse at North Side and South Side Hospitals for many years. She was an active member of the Niles First Christian Church and participated in many of the church activities.
Shirley was a member of the "Flower Ladies" at the National McKinley Birthplace Memorial Association and was instrumental in organizing the colorful and seasonal flower designs around the historic memorial. She enjoyed golfing, playing bridge, perennial gardening and planning many celebrations and special events. Most of all, she cherished the time spent with her children and grandchildren.
Shirley is survived by children, Jill Miller of Howland, Leslie (Judson) Millhon of Columbus, Thomas (Susan) Stephens of Columbus; grandchildren, Ryan (Allison) Miller, Chelsea Miller, Michael Stephens, Judson Millhon III, Lydia Millhon; sister-in-law, Ruth J. Wilson of Cortland, and many nieces, nephews and close friends.
Shirley was preceded in death by her husband William L. "Bill" Stephens whom she married on September 14, 1956; son-in-law John Miller; brother, David Howells and sisters, Pearl Baldwin and Mary Jane Howells.
Calling Hours will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 11, 2021 at the Holeton-Yuhasz Funeral Home. The Funeral will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home. The Rev. Dr. Bernard Oakes will officiate. Private burial will be at Kerr Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The National McKinley Birthplace Memorial Association 40 N. Main Street, Niles, Ohio 44446 or The Hope Center for Cancer Care 1745 Niles-Cortland Road, Warren, Ohio 44484.
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