On Sunday, December 28, 2014, Shirley A. Carlisle finished the race and went home to the outstretched arms of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Shirley will be remembered for her quilting, her devotion to the Senior Citizens Center and the love she and her husband Bud had for leading others to know Jesus. They both taught Sunday School, led small group studies for young men and women in their home as well as working summers at JARRS. They were a vital part of the music ministry of mission trips along with Doc Shaeffer who at age 96 continues to make contacts with those who were a part of his team. The seeds that they planted and nourished throughout their lives have led to the spreading of the Word and lives changed for Christ.
Bud (Clifford) was taken home by his Savior as he knelt in prayer in 2002. Shirley came home several hours later to find him still kneeling in prayer. Mom’s journey was not an easy one after his passing. She continued to travel to Florida with her friend Gloria but soon found that too difficult to continue. She enjoyed the family farm her six grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and finally moved in with her son Mark and his family. Later in life she decided she wanted to be closer to her son Keith, a pastor in Mansfield, Ohio. She spent many years sharing with him, his church and the church family of Mansfield.
Though dad’s journey seemed quick and comforting to those who heard it, mom’s journey was just as important, though to the world more challenging. Why? All things are not revealed to us in our time but God didn’t finish HIS work through her until her last breath just as He does for you and me. Though we all follow different paths in life, we can all find PEACE in knowing that He who made us is able to keep us through all times both good and bad because HE has prepared a place for us to take us from this world to one ETERNAL where all pain and sorrow cease. The door to eternal blessings is through the belief in Jesus who came to save us from our sin. He came this holiday season to take Shirley home to her eternal reward.
As per Shirley’s request no viewing hours will be observed. Family and friends will meet at the Carlisle Family Cemetery on Tuesday, December 30 at 2 p.m. for graveside services. In lieu of flowers or memorials please send gifts to the Jackson County Homelessness Committee (JCHC) in care of Christ United Methodist Church, The Gideon’s for the purchase of bibles or send donations to support the effort against Human Trafficking in care of First Wesleyan Church 1908 Park Avenue West, Ontario Ohio 44906.
Arrangements are by Lewis & Gillum Funeral Home.