Shirley Ann Blasdell, 81, of Morrison, IL, died Tuesday, July 7, 2020, at her home.
Shirley was born February 13, 1939, in Moline, IL, the daughter of Philip L. and Rosella Marie (Kennedy) Smith. She married Louis Blasdell on June 15, 1957, in Prophetstown, IL. He preceded her in death on February 2, 2002. As well as helping farm and running the family Blasdell Shop, Shirley was employed as a teacher’s aide in the Fenton Schools, retiring in 1995. She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, serving as Eucharistic Minister, Renewal Community, Altar and Rosary Sodality, active member, and former President and prayer chain leader of Church Women United (CWU.) She also belonged to the National Education Association and the Whiteside County Farm Bureau and served as Election Judge of Fenton Township. Shirley served as Treasurer/Secretary of the EHS Class of 1957 for 50 years.
Shirley’s first love was being involved in every event with her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed sewing quilts for World Service, playing cards at the senior center, and volunteering at Gianna’s House.
Shirley is survived by her children, Stephen (Ginger) Blasdell, Morrison, Alan (Teresa) Blasdell, Fenton, IL, Karen (Randy) Snowden, Erie, IL; sister, Sharon (Terry) Wagner, Dixon, IL; seven grandchildren, Wiley (Autumn) Blasdell, Emily Huizenga, Sarah (Preston) Elliott-Moore, Chris (Ashlie) Snowden, Kara Snowden (Sal Victor), Katelynn (Evan) Scanlan, Ryan (Victoria) Blasdell; 11 great-grandchildren.
Along with her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Sandra Blasdell and James Smith.
Due to restrictions of COVID-19, a Private Resurrection Mass will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Morrison, IL. Shirley’s Mass will be available for viewing later in the day on Saturday, July 11, 2020, by visiting her obituary at www.gibsonbodefh.com.
Public Visitation will be from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., on Friday, July 10, 2020, at Gibson-Bode Funeral Home, Erie, IL. Face coverings are recommended and social distancing will be required.
Burial will be in the Fenton Cemetery, Fenton, IL.
Memorials may be made to Gianna’s House Pregnancy Resources in Rock Falls, IL.
Share a memory or condolence at www.gibsonbodefh.com.