Shirley French
July 09, 1927 - March 04, 2016
Obituary
French, Shirley M. of Saginaw, Michigan Our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother passed away on Friday, March 4, 2016, at Hoyt Nursing & Rehab Centre with her family by her side. She was 88 years old. Shirley M. Esplen was born on July 9, 1927, in Detroit, Michigan to the late Gerald Power and Bessie Latender. She was a graduate of Arthur Hill High School. Following graduation, Shirley began working at Michigan Bell. After the war she married James S. French in Saginaw. Together they moved to Alaska, had two beautiful daughters, and within three years moved the family back to Saginaw. Shirley then returned to Michigan Bell, holding various positions until her retirement under Ameritech in 1999 with 40 years of service. She enjoyed golfing and bowling and spending time with family and friends. Shirley was actively involved within her union, the Communications Workers of America and the Pioneers within Ameritech. She was very involved in fund raising projects such as: the Wish List and the Muscular Dystrophy Association. She adored all animals, especially her treasured cats. She will forever be remembered for her fiery disposition. Surviving are two daughters: Cheryl Gray of Saginaw, Christy Tedrow of Saginaw; three grandchildren: Kari (Randy) Keith of Saginaw, Shannon (Luis) Chavez of AZ, Christy (Doug) Heilman of Grand Rapids, and five great-grandchildren: Jacob Gray of Saginaw, Alex and Elliott Keith of Saginaw, Asa and Teagan Heilman of Grand Rapids. She was preceded in death by a son-in-law: Timothy Gray; and a grandson, Michael Gray. FUNERAL: A Funeral Service will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 9, 2016, at the Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd. (off State). Rev. Robert Richards will officiate. Burial will follow at Roselawn Memorial Gardens. VISITATION: Friends are welcome to visit with the family at the funeral home on Tuesday, March 8, 2016, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Visitation will resume on Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service. MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the Saginaw County Humane Society. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home or through www.deislerfuneralhome.com.
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Memories
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Nancy Harms Ramey
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So very sorry for your loss. I knew Shirley when we were operators-yes, that long ago! We would see each other at Wish Book each year, too. Then, she was living at the same assisted living as my dad so we would see each other. You are right about her being feisty! Would not have been Shirley if she weren't.
You have my prayers and condolences.
BH
Bonnie Herrera
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Bonnie Herrera lit a candle in memory of Shirley M. French
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Liz & Jack Visuri
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Cheryl and family, So sorry for the loss of your mother. Mom's are very special. Thinking of you at this sad time and keeping you in our prayers. Liz & Jack
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Suzanne Neering-Steimel
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Shirley and I worked together in Operator Services at the phone company for many years. She was a great person to her customers, union members and friends. She would call me every year as a reminder to attend the former operator services picnic and catch up on all the "news". Condolences to you Cheryl and Family.