SHELBY — Doris Payne-Biglin made history in 1996 by becoming the first woman elected mayor in the City of Shelby.
She also served as a Shelby councilwoman. Payne-Biglin passed away on April 2 at the age of 91.
According to current mayor Steve Schag, she served as mayor for two terms — one two-year term and a four-year term.
A 1951 graduate of Shelby High School, Payne-Biglin’s obituary described her as “a passionate advocate for her community.”
“Doris (Payne-Biglin) committed much of her life to making Shelby a better place for all,” her obituary said. “Her enthusiasm for local causes and her willingness to lend a helping hand inspired many.”
On Friday, Gov. Mike DeWine ordered flags of the United States and State of Ohio be flown at half-staff upon all public buildings and grounds in Shelby from Friday until sunset on April 9.
Schag said the city has lowered its flags in observation of Payne-Biglin, as well as to honor Rachel Fagan of Lexington, who’s husband is a Shelby native.
Fagan passed away unexpectedly at home Friday from a brain aneurysm, according to her obituary. She was 39 years-old.
Steve Schag, Marilyn John share condolences
Schag shared memories Friday of his time spent with Shelby’s first elected female mayor.
“When I think of mayor Doris Payne-Biglin, I think of the care she exhibited for her fellow citizens and her passion in public service,” he said. “She was a natural people person and she had a very personal touch in fulfilling the role as mayor of Shelby.”
The current mayor recalled there always being an “open-door policy” with Payne-Biglin at City Hall.
“I remember her pleasant personality and ready smile, which opened many doors for constructive and positive conversations,” Schag said. “I always enjoyed working with her within the city.
“She certainly leaves behind an enduring and cherished legacy of faith, love and perseverance,” he said.
Shelby’s second female mayor Marilyn John, who served as mayor from 2010 to December 2014 and is now a state representative representing the 76th Ohio House District, also shared her sentiments Friday afternoon.
“Having walked in the footsteps of mayor Payne-Biglin, I have a deep appreciation of her work to better our community and am proud to have served as the second to her being the first female Mayor of the City of Shelby,” John said.
Friends are invited to visit Payne-Biglin’s family on Monday, April 7 from 3 to 5 p.m. at Barkdull Funeral Home & Crematory in Shelby, 33 N. Gamble St. A funeral service will immediately follow at 5 p.m. with Edna Stahl officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Richland County Humane Society, 3025 Park Ave. W. in Mansfield, or the Gentiva Hospice at 112 Harcourt Road, #3, in Mount Vernon.
Online condolences may be left for the family online at the Barkdull Funeral Home & Crematory website.