Shirley Mellinger

Shirley J. Mellinger, 83, formerly of Fishers, Indiana, died in New Port Richey, Florida on November 12, 2010. Born on April 15, 1927 in Newton, IL she was the daughter of V.A. and Helen B. Jones. She married Walter T. Mellinger on January 28, 1951. He preceded her in death on October 5, 2009.
She attended Newton High School and Eastern Illinois Teachers College, earning her teaching degree in business and physical education. She taught two years in Morton, IL before moving to Indianapolis in 1951 after marrying her husband. In 1969 she returned to teaching, at Hamilton Southeastern High School, teaching business classes. She earned her masters degree from Butler University in 1975.
She moved to Tampa Florida after retirement in 1983. She was a member of the Indiana State Teachers Association (ISTA), Eastern Star, the American Legion and VFW Women's Auxiliaries. While raising her family, she served in many group leader capacities for Girl Scouts, 4-H, and Boy Scouts. She was well-known for creating many crafts for her family and Women's Auxiliaries. She was very proud of sewing clothes like Halloween costumes and holiday sweatshirts for her grandchildren.
She is survived by three children, Peggy (Jeff) Wier of West Lafayette, Jean (Shane) Muir of Noblesville, and Dean (Ann Gent) Mellinger of Indianapolis; four grandchildren, Natalie Muir, Ross Muir, Stacie Muir, and Katie Wier.
She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers Earl, Hershel, and Wayne.
Visitation will be at Randall Roberts Fishers Mortuary on Saturday, November 20, 2010 from 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM, immediately followed by services at 1:00 PM and interment at Oaklawn Memorial Gardens.
Memorial contributions can be made to Riley Hospital for Children, the Ronald McDonald House or Shriners Hospitals.