Shirley Ball Seals

Shirley Jean Erb was born 1/19/1935 to Walter and Jeanette Erb.  She had an older brother Walter Erb Jr. and a younger sister Mary June (Kriska) that gave her the greatest gifts of her two favorite nieces.

She married Herbert J. Ball in September of 1955, and that’s where it all began.  Seven years and five kids later there was a family that was close, caring, demanding and forgiving.  Her kids, Dennis (Jackie), Terry (Christy), Peggy, Ted (Debbie) and Kenneth (Sandie) would each say that they were her favorite. None of them were wrong!  Later she would add Godchildren: Danny, Kathy and our “Other Brother” Steve.

She became Grammy when Amy was born. Continuing the love for more than 60 Grandchildren/Spouses and Great Grandchildren. There were over 50 people saying goodbye this week in the ICU.  It was fun when the nurse said “only immediate family” and nobody left!

She lived her life lovingly and inclusively.  Divorced, blended, close friend in need…. they were all her kids…. and they all got a $30 check on their birthday!!

Several years after Dad passed in 1985, Mom married Carl Seals, whom she had known since she was 3 years old and “pretended to marry.”  Carl brought a spark to Mom’s life and more siblings, Don and John.

Through physical, financial and personal problems, she always knew what was most important, LUNCH!

We will all miss her kindness, her acceptance, her “what, chicken strips again?”, and most of all her ability to smile and make us feel like the most important person in the world.

Our hearts are heavy, but our spirits are raised on the breath of God. Rest well and wait for us. We will see your smile again!