Shirley R Katz

Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away surrounded by the love of her family.

Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 1935, Shirley was raised in Akron, Ohio, where she met the love of her life, Leo. Together they shared a beautiful marriage of more than 70 years, building a life centered on love, family, faith, and community.

Shirley and Leo were blessed with four children, Cheryl (David) Lever, Melinda (Brad) Edwards, Aimee (Dwynn) Greenfield, and Randy (Julie) Katz. She embraced each of her children's spouses as her own and took immense pride in the loving family they created together.

Shirley was known for her extraordinary hospitality, boundless creativity, and genuine friendship. Whether in Akron, Ohio, or Sarasota, Florida, she welcomed everyone with warmth, kindness, and a wonderful sense of humor. Hardworking, outgoing, and deeply caring, she devoted herself to her family, extended family, and community. Her dedication to Anshe Sfard Synagogue was especially meaningful, where she lovingly catered countless events over many years.

Everyone who knew Shirley cherished her wit, her fun-loving spirit, and her generous heart. Above all, her greatest joy was spending time with her many grandchildren, their spouses, and her great-grandchildren, who brought endless happiness to her life.