Shirley Wolford

Shirley Ann (Gross) Wolford, 93, of Lima, Ohio, arrived in heaven on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, surrounded by family and under the watchful care of St. Rita’s Hospice. Shirley was born on October 5, 1932, in Lima, Ohio, to James Howard and Laura Elsie (Hawk) Gross, who both preceded her in death.

Left to cherish her memory are her three loving daughters: Karen Wolford of Dayton, Joyce (Earl) Reives of Troy, and Kaye (Gerald) Lindeman of Delphos. Shirley is also survived by grandchildren: Laura Foust, Robert Foust, Kimberly Valentino, Jorian Johnson, Cassie (Jordan) Martin, Angie (Kevin) Klaus, and Tim (Virginia) Lindeman; as well as a host of great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Shirley was preceded in death by her husband of nearly 60 years, Robert “Bob” Lowell Wolford, who died May 29, 2013. Also preceding her in death was an infant son, James Wolford; and siblings: Albert (Argyle) Gross, Dorothy (Wilbur) Jarvis, James (Irene) Gross, Robert (Louise) Gross, and Barbara (Henry) Althoff; as well as brother-in-law, Richard Wolford; and a great-granddaughter.

Shirley was a bookkeeper by trade, working several places but most prominently Appleseed Ridge Girl Scout Council. Shirley’s faith was a very important part of her life. She was a 71-year member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Lima and enjoyed visiting other churches when she could. Shirley carried a wooden cross and a lifesaver candy in her pocket for many, many years as a symbol of knowing Jesus as her “lifesaver”. She also believed in helping others, as evidenced by being a volunteer for St. Rita’s Auxiliary for 28 years, including a stint as Treasurer.

Shirley enjoyed a good life with her beloved husband, Robert. She was so proud of the life they built and shared. While Shirley lived her entire life in Lima, Ohio, she traveled extensively. She and Robert were very fortunate to have visited all 50 states. They had a cottage at Indian Lake for about 20 years where they hosted many gatherings and cookouts for family and friends. They also had a home in Clearwater, Florida, where they were “Snowbirds” for about 20 years. After Robert’s death, Shirley continued to travel with her daughters, most special of which was a final trip to Florida with all three daughters just one year before her passing.

Anyone that knew Shirley knows she never met a stranger. She talked to everyone she met and relished telling stories about the husband and family that she loved so dearly. She enjoyed hosting parties for family and friends, especially the family Christmas Eve gatherings. While Shirley is now in heaven with her beloved savior, Jesus Christ, her memory will live on with all her knew her and loved her.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, March 7, 2026, with viewing from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., and the service will begin at 1 p.m. at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home. Pastor Jim Nathan will officiate

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Trinity United Methodist Church, Lima, Ohio.

Arrangements handled by Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed at www.chamberlainhuckeriede.com.