Shirley Smith

Shirley Ann Smith, 88, of Fresno, entered God's kingdom on May 16, 2023.  She was born August 13, 1934 to the late Frank and Esther (Reidenbach) Limbacher.  Shirley, the most loving and devoted wife, mother, sister, grandmother, great grandmother, and aunt is survived by her husband Wayne and three sons Kirby (Debbie); Garry (Irene) and Randy.  

Shirley was a graduate of the former Baltic High School where she was a member of the basketball team and sang in the chorus.  On October 11, 1953, she married Wayne, the love of her life and together they created Smith & Sons Trucking.  The love of trucking became a family affair and has produced three generations of truckers.  Known as "Short Stuff" on the CB, she dispatched the trucks and ensured the business ran smoothly.

Shirley supported the family business while still finding time to enjoy gardening, cooking, and canning.  Having lived in the same house for 69 years, her home was warm, welcoming, and filled with love.  Covered in countless family pictures, her kitchen was home to anyone that entered.  In the warmer months you could find her riding on her lawnmower meticulously taking care of her massive yard. She was an avid letter writer to her far away loved ones that chronicled her daily life and brought "home" to you with every word.  Her joy of storytelling and reminiscing about her life is the greatest gift she gave to all that loved her. 

She is preceded in death by her sister Janice (Chester) Green and brother Ronnie (Geraldine) Limbacher.  She is survived by her brothers Dean (Elaine) Limbacher and David (Cookie) Limbacher.  With a love for all children, she was blessed to have seven grandchildren Heather, Zachary, Megan, Liz, Randall, Nicholia and Adam, nineteen great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.  Shirley spent endless hours making blankets for each child, enjoyed helping with hemming and sewing for her grandkids and was genuinely interested in all they had going on in their busy lives.

In keeping with her wishes, a private family graveside service will be held in Halifax Cemetery at Fresno.

It was also Shirley’s wish that memorial contributions be directed to Lifecare Hospice, 1900 Akron Road, Wooster, Ohio 44691.