Shirley D. Duncan Swanger, 68, of Mansfield, passed away Thursday, Feb. 23, 2017, at her home. She was born September 20, 1948, in Mansfield, Ohio, to the late Leonard and Mary F. Duncan.
Shirley graduated from Lucas High School in 1966. For a short period of time, she lived in Port Arthur, Texas, with her aunt and uncle. She moved back to Mansfield and married Ronald L. Swanger on July 25, 1970. Together they had three children.
She was a homemaker while her children were young, then went to work at Crestline Paint and other area factories. She volunteered at Empac and the Richland Carousel. Knowing the value of an education, she earned her STNA license at the age of 53 and began working at Lenore’s 24 Hour Nursing Care and finished her career at TLC Home Health Care.
Shirley considered it an honor to care for so many wonderful people throughout the years.
She was a member of Grace Episcopal Church her entire life where she had many fond memories. Shirley had been attending Community Bible Church for the past year as well. She considered being a homemaker a privilege and was most proud of all her family.
Her children and grandchildren were the light of her life. She loved her grandchildren and playing games, taking walks, playing ball, or simply watching them grow and mature brought much joy in her life. Shirley had a great appreciation for art and enjoyed fishing, swimming and camping in her free time.
She is survived by three daughters, Tonya Swanger, Shannon (Edward Jr.) Branham and Nichole Swanger; six treasured grandchildren, Cody Swanger, Joshua, Shelby, Ashley, Skyler and Katlynn Branham; a nephew, Justin Duncan; cousin, Cindi Austin; and lifelong friend, Judy Marvicsin. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her only sister, Patricia Joan Duncan.
A memorial service conducted by Rev. Joe L. Ashby will be held 11 a.m. on Monday, March 6, 2017 at Grace Episcopal Church, 41 Bowman St., Mansfield. Burial will follow at Mansfield Cemetery. The Diamond Street Home of Wappner Funeral Directors is privileged to serve the family.
Words of comfort may be expressed at www.wappner.com.
