Shirley M. Elderkin

Shirley Elderkin, 76, went home to be with the Lord on April 25, 2014, surrounded by her family, at home.

Born in 1938, in Baltimore, MD, she was the daughter of the late Herbert and Frances Brushe.

Shirley was a caregiver for many years, working at Willow Valley, Landis Homes and also private duty.

Shirley had a servant’s heart and loved taking care of others. She loved the Lord and had a passion for sharing the love of Jesus with everyone she encountered, up until she took her last breath.

Spending time with her family, especially the little ones, brought Shirley great joy. She loved worship music, Bible study, crocheting, cheering for the Baltimore Ravens, the beach and cooking. She recently went to South Africa on a mission trip with some ladies from her church. She was a member of Gateway Church for 17 years where she served in children’s ministry and as a greeter. Her warm smile made everyone feel like they were “home”.

The family is grateful to Dr. Tracy DeGreen and the staff at The Lancaster Cancer Center as well as the staff at Hospice and Community Care.

Shirley was preceded in death by her loving husband, Charles, in 2007, and a brother, Herbert Brushe, of Colorado Springs, CO.

Shirley is survived by her children, Michael Hipley, married to Melissa, of Essex, MD, Donna Titus, married to Stephen, of Reinholds, PA, Terry Arnold, married to Jimmie, Dallastown, PA, Lesley Webster, married to Keith, Leola, PA, and 3 stepdaughters, Linda Elderkin, of Baltimore, MD, Charleen O’Connor, married to Timothy, of Arbutus, MD and Suzanne Buckholtz, of Catonsville, MD, 18 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Shirley’s Life Celebration will be held on Saturday, May 3, at 11:00 am at The Worship Center, 2384 New Holland Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601, with Pastor Barry Ryan officiating.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made in Shirley’s memory to Lancaster Cancer Center or Hospice and Community care. To send the family online condolences visit us at www.groffeckenroth.com. Arrangements by Groff-High Funeral Home, New Holland.