Shirley L. Houk 1929-2025

Shirley was born in Youngstown, Aug. 30, 1929. While raising her family in Chillicothe, Shirley enjoyed vegetable gardening, canning and bowling. After many years, Shirley returned to the Youngstown area to be closer to family. After retiring she enjoyed traveling, dancing and volunteering at church.

Shirley was well known for her cranberry meatballs and award-winning strawberry jam and chocolate chip cookies. She enjoyed entertaining, Ohio State football, and most of all, spending time with her family.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Vester and Emily Denton; stepmother, Florence Denton; and sister, Estelle Hutta-Scott. Shirley’s son, Jeff Houk, passed away Jan. 29, 2025.

She is survived by her brother, Dr. Fred Denton (Phyllis); and her children, Karen Houk Knauff, David (Colleen) and Dan (Ellen); cherished grandchildren, Ryan (Kerin), Alex (Jake), Julia, Lauren, Allison and Leah; and great-grandchildren, Harlow, Hazel and Greyson; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be noon to 1 p.m. Saturday, March 22, 2025, at Jardine Funeral Home, 15822 Pearl Road, Strongsville, with a service at 1 p.m.

Interment will be in Petersburg Cemetery at a later date.

The family is grateful to the hospice team at O’Neill Healthcare in Bay Village for their kindness and compassionate care.

Memorial donations can be made in Shirley’s name to O’Neill Healthcare Hospice, 605 Bradley Road, Bay Village, OH 44140.

(special notice)