Shirley I. (Whitesell) Smith

Shirley I. (Whitesell) Smith, age 89 of Clearwater, FL, formerly of Williamsport, IN, died at 9:17 am on Saturday, July 18, 2009 at Twin Oaks ALF in Clearwater. Shirley was born on July 21, 1919 near Oxford, IN. She was the daughter of Earl and Myrtle (Green) Whitesell. Shirley was a graduate of Oxford High School and received a music degree from Indiana University. On March 25, 1945 she married Ralph W. Smith in Oxford, IN. He preceded her in death on January 19, 1998. Shirley moved to Williamsport in 1972 and had resided in Florida since February 2000. She worked as a school teacher at Seeger, Pine Village and Kramer teaching music and retired in 1979. She gave piano lessons in her home for many years. Shirley was a member of the Williamsport Christian Church and the Indiana University Alumni Association. She enjoyed gardening and loved music. Surviving are, 1 son, Phillip A. Smith (wife: Anastasia) of Clearwater, FL; 2 grandchildren, Steven Smith of Philadelphia, PA and Nicole Snell of Newnan, GA; 4 great-grandchildren, Christopher Smith of Atlanta, GA, Jackson, Avery, and Riley Snell all of Newnan, GA; and 1 brother, Robert Whitesell of TX. Graveside services will be held at Oxford West Cemetery on Thursday, July 23, 2009 at 11:00 am with Pastor Linda Sproull officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the Williamsport Christian Church, Alzheimer’s Association or American Legion Post #259.