Gracefully succumbing to illness, Shirley Joan (Cunningham) Sherman died Friday at the St. John Specialty Care Center in Mars.

Born on June 30, 1935, she was the daughter of Floyd E. and Dorothy M. (Unverzagt) Cunningham.

Graduating from Butler High School in 1953 as head majorette for the marching band, Shirley also performed in many school plays.

Despite the many afflictions that dictated her life, Shirley enjoyed shopping, listening to music and, especially, spending time with her family.

Surviving are three daughters, Sandra K. (Jewell) Glover, Linda M. (Jewell) Thompson and Cynthia E. (Sherman) Freeman, and a brother, Donald F. Cunningham, all from Butler. She will be sadly missed as well by six grandchildren, Justin R. Mickey, Kimberly A. (Thompson) McClellan, Kylene M. (Thompson) Kozik, Kayla J. (Hutchison) Hildebrand, Rita M. (Hutchison) Shay and Ashley J. Glover. Six great-grandchildren, a niece, two nephews. and a number of great-nieces and great-nephews also remain.

Preceding Shirley in death were a daughter, Deborah J. Sherman, and her husband, Charles E, Sherman.

Throughout her life Shirley maintained a fervent faith and was a blessing to everyone she encountered. Her genuine and childlike warmth and love left a lasting impression on those who will eternally miss her.

<B>SHERMAN</B> — Internment and private burial services for Shirley Joan (Cunningham) Sherman, who died Friday, Feb. 19, 2010, will be at the discretion of the family.Memorializations may be made to St. John Specialty Care Center, 500 Wittenberg Way, Mars, PA 16046, for its compassionate and tender care.Arrangements are by the <B>Thompson-Miller Funeral Home</B>, and information and a private guest book are available at www.thompson-miller.com.