Shirley Gail Henderson, 93, formerly of Columbia City, died peacefully at 12:10 p.m. Saturday, January 14, 2023, in the company of family, at Peabody Retirement Community, North Manchester.

Born on September 1, 1929, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, she was a daughter of the late Walter R. and Anna (Jennings) Kesler. Growing up in Columbia City, she graduated from Columbia City High School in 1948.

On March 31, 1950, she married Robert Coe Henderson at the Trinity Methodist Church in Columbia City. They spent their entire married life in Columbia City. Robert died on March 14, 2002.

Shirley and Bob traveled throughout the United States and Europe after Bob's retirement in 1990. Shirley enjoyed a good bridge game, whether with the ladies' bridge groups or with Bob in their couples' group.

Surviving are her children, Angela (Peter) Yorg of Columbia City, Douglas J. (Karen) Henderson of Lincolnville, and Carol R. (Vonnie Berry) Henderson of Fort Wayne; a daughter-in-law, K.C. Henderson of Fort Wayne; grandchildren, Jennifer (Robert) Stephenson, Jonathan (Talya) Moore, Joseph (Jeri Slacian) Henderson, Kate (Tyler Page) Henderson, and Todd (Betty McClain) Henderson; and great-grandchildren, Thomas (Taylor) Stephenson, Megan (Carter Smith) Stephenson, Jaycie, Brody and Kinley Moore, and Jasmine, Rebecca, Devin, and Dylan Henderson.

Additionally, she was preceded in death by a son, Michael Henderson; a sister Phyllis Johnston; and a brother, Charles Kesler.

At Shirley's request, there will be no visitation or service. She will be laid to rest beside her husband at the Greenhill Cemetery, Columbia City. Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.

Memorials in Shirley's honor are to Humane Society of Whitley County or Parkview Home Health and Hospice.