Shirley Ford
Kane |
Shirley Mae Gust Ford, 93, went to be with the Lord at 10:05 p.m., Saturday, March 2, 2024.
She was born in East Alton, Illinois on June 27, 1930, the daughter of the late Melvin and Nellie (Knight) Franklin.
Shirley grew up in Wood River, where she and her husband, Urban, raised their family, until moving to Kampsville in 1980, where they resided until 1997, at which time moving to Kane.
She married Urban Francis Gust on August 20, 1948 in Wood River, and throughout their 49 year marriage, they shared many wonderful memories together spent fishing along the banks, until his death on December 13, 1997.
She then married William "Woody" Ford on Sept. 5, 2005 in Pittsfield, Illinois, and although short, they enjoyed spending time outdoors and camping, during their three year marriage prior to his death on January 18, 2009.
Shirley was formerly employed at Skaggs Steakhouse in Wood River, as well as being widely known as an Avon Representative for many years. Following the death of Urban, she was employed for a brief time at McDonalds in Jerseyville.
Her primary focus, however, was that of a devoted wife and loving mother and grandmother.
She was strong in her faith, and was a longtime member of the Open Door House of Praise in Jerseyville, and had a passion for crafting and sewing, making many handmade creations throughout the years for her family and friends. She also enjoyed spending time in her yard, gardening and bird watching.
Surviving are three children and their spouses, Sherrie and Paul Edgell of Kane, Terry and Paula Gust of Edwardsville and Michele Morris of Kane; a daughter in-law and her husband, Kathy and Danny Blasioli of Wood River; 10 Grandchildren; and numerous great grandchildren and great great grandchildren.
In addition to her parents and husbands, she was preceded in death by a son, Gerald Francis Gust; a grandson, Danny Phillips; a son in-law, Kirk Taviner; and five brothers and three sisters.
Private family services were held on Friday, March 8, 2024 at Crawford Funeral Home in Jerseyville.
Burial was in Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto.
Memorials may be given to the Open Door House of Praise in Jerseyville, in care of the funeral home.
Memories may be shared at www.crawfordfunerals.com.
Crawford Funeral Home
