Shirley Ann (Walling) Austin

     Shirley Ann Austin, age 86, of Laingsburg, MI, passed away Wednesday, October 18, 2023, at Hazel I. Findlay Country Manor, St. Johns.

     Shirley was born in Owosso, Michigan on September 26, 1937, the daughter of Lewis and Francelia (Cook) Walling. Shirley graduated as the valedictorian from Elsie High School with the class of 1956. She went back to college later in life to obtain her Bachelor of Arts and teaching certificate from Michigan State University in 1974. Shirley taught sixth grade at Leonard Elementary in Ovid for 22 years, retiring in 1996.

   Shirley married George Kenneth Austin on July 19, 1980, at the United Church of Ovid and they celebrated 43 years of marriage together. Shirley and Ken enjoyed their summers on Lake Victoria in Laingsburg and winters on Mustang Island, Texas.  She was very talented musically, enjoyed playing the keyboard, singing and was in a trio called the "Teen Tones" during high school. Most of all, she loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

   She is survived by her husband Ken Austin of Laingsburg, MI;

children: Kim and Diane Winkler of DeWitt, MI; Kristi and Bryon  Taylor of Bannister, MI; Kenda and David Ladd of Fruitport, MI; step-children: DeEtta and Jessie Patrick of Florida; Nanette Leodler of Ashley, MI; and Holly Austin of Laingsburg, MI; She is also survived by 10 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters.

     The family would like to thank Hazel Findlay and Compassus Hospice for their excellent care, compassion, and dignity that were shown to Shirley and their entire family.

     A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, November 10, 2023, at 12:00 P.M. at the United Church of Ovid, MI with Pastor Bryan Simon officiating. Visitation will be held from 11:00 A.M. until the time of the service. A luncheon will be served immediately following the service.

     In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the United Church of Ovid, 131 West Front Street, Ovid, MI, 48866 or the Alzheimer's Association Michigan Chapter Headquarters, 25200 Telegraph Rd #100, Southfield, MI 48033. Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes - Houghton Chapel, Ovid, Michigan.