Shirley V. Conner Obituary
Shirley Viola Conner, age 94, of Gladwin, passed away peacefully on August 24, 2026, at The Brook of Houghton Lake. She was born on July 16, 1932, in Carman, Manitoba, Canada, to the late George and Viola (Cutting) Carther and was adopted by her uncle Howard and Evelyn Cutting.
Shirley came to Gladwin in 1954 and soon made it her home. On September 1, 1955, she married Walter Conner in Carman, Manitoba. Together, they shared 64 devoted years centered on faith and family until his passing on May 26, 2020. Shirley was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who cherished her family above all else.
She is survived by her children, Sharon (Ken) Whitlatch, Diane (Tom) Rellinger, Phillip (Tamera) Conner, and Greg (Beronica) Conner; her grandchildren, Chase (Lisa) Whitlatch, Dillon (Sarah) Whitlatch, Kali (Mark) Worley, Mackenzie Rellinger, Gabriel Rellinger, Lucas Conner, Caitlyn (Adam) Pascoe, Chris Fair, Nick Fair, Madison Fair, Kendall Fair, Brianna Robinette, and Brandon Robinette; and 10 great-grandchildren, who brought her immense joy. She was preceded in death by her four brothers, Earl, Harvey, Bert, and Murray Cutting.
Shirley graduated from Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas, with a degree in Liberal Arts, reflecting her lifelong commitment to learning and personal growth. She retired from the Gladwin Housing Commission, where she served as Director of Clare-Gladwin Senior Services. Following retirement, she continued serving others as a MAAP counselor. Throughout her career and community involvement, Shirley was a dependable source of encouragement, kindness, and support.
A faithful member of the Gladwin Church of Christ, Shirley treasured her faith and the fellowship of her church family. She was especially devoted to her grandchildren and found joy in knitting, sewing, singing, cooking, and traveling. She cherished life's special moments, especially one of her favorite pastimes—watching the evening sunset.
Shirley lived a life marked by love, faith, perseverance, and devotion to others. Her desire to help and unwavering support touched the lives of many. She leaves behind a lasting legacy of love and cherished memories that will remain in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who knew her.
A funeral service will be held at 1:00 pm on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at the Lee-Ramsay Funeral Home – Gladwin Chapel, with Minister Matthew French presiding and followed with burial at Highland Cemetery, Gladwin, Michigan. Family with greet family and friends from 11:00 am until the time of service.
