Shirlie Ann Cattell

Shirlie Ann Cattell, age 77, of Strasburg, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, friends and music early Wednesday evening, August 1, 2012, in Hennis Care Centre at Bolivar.

Born at Cambridge township in Lenaware County, Michigan, August 12, 1934, she was raised a farm girl in Onsted, Michigan by her parents, Everet Louis and Mildred Ella Filter Netcher.

On August 20, 1955, she wed the blacksmith’s son, Carl J. Cattell, and together they embarked on life’s journey. A lifelong educator and Christian, Shirlie loved life, arts, and travel, and especially celebrated children.

She began her teaching career in Michigan, completing her own schooling in the 1960’s to return to teaching in Montgomery County Public Schools at the first grade level, retiring in 2000. Her love of books, reading and learning led her to be a strong supporter of libraries, contributing books and energy to libraries in several states.

For most of her life, Shirlie resided in Silver Spring, Maryland, where she and Carl reared their own family, and were active in community functions. There, she was a member of the First Baptist Church of Wheaton, and active in the music program, serving as church organist, pianist and children’s choir leader, and a member of the handbell choir.

In retirement, she moved to Ohio to be part of her granddaughter’s life, and enjoyed attending every concert and assisting with any events in which she participated. Shirlie enjoyed traveling, plants and gardening, and was a member of AARP and Seasoned Seniors.

Upon her move to Ohio, she chose to attend the St. Johns United Church of Christ of Strasburg as her church home because of their friendly spirit and welcoming atmosphere. She was active with the church music program, participated in the handbell choir and children’s music programs.

Survivors include her ever energetic companion shih tzu named Mollie, as well as her loving daughter, Camille (husband, Marty) Lindon of Strasburg. A son, Pierre Cattell of Herndon, Virginia, also survives.

She’ll be sadly missed by her granddaughter, Raeann Lindon of Strasburg, and two special grandchildren, Grace and Zac Harper.

Many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews complete the family.

In addition to her parents, Shirlie was preceded in death by her husband Carl in 1989, a sister, Kathryn Williams, and a nephew, Mark Williams.

Friends are invited to call Sunday afternoon, August 5, from 1-3 in St. Johns United Church of Christ at Strasburg.

The Rev. Gary Friend will lead Shirlie’s memorial service in the church Sunday afternoon at 3 with a reception following the ceremony in the church fellowship hall.

The family requests that memorial contributions be made to Community Hospice of Tuscarawas County, 716 Commercial Avenue SW, New Philadelphia, OH 44663, or to the Dover Public Library, 525 North Walnut Street, Dover, OH 44622, or to the Tuscarawas County Public Library, 121 Fair Avenue NW, New Philadelphia, OH 44663.

GEIB FUNERAL CENTER AT DOVER
(330) 343-5506