Shirley Louise Gibson, (nee Bandy), passed away on Thursday, April 27, 2017 at age 88. Shirley was one of the most interesting women anyone would ever have the pleasure meeting and calling a friend. She was born in Hannibal, MO, where she lived with her grandmother, aunts and uncles until she and her mother moved to Peoria, IL. when Shirley was 12 years old.

During their time in Peoria, Shirley’s mom, Lilian married Michael Filaponi. After graduating from high school, she attended Hickey Business School before beginning her short career as an executive secretary at Caterpillar.

Promising herself she would never be one of those people who received a “20-year pin” from an employer, she saved her money and in a few short years, bid heavy equipment farewell, and began her journey as a world traveler.

Her stories were mesmerizing. She was a bold woman with a heart set on enjoying all things beautiful during her lifetime.

Shirley was an artist, gardener and antique collector. She was a member and supported The Missouri Botanical Gardens, The RKR Art Club, The St. Louis Symphony, Humane Society of Missouri, and the St. Louis Art Museum. She married the love of her life Louis Gibson in 1969. Louie sadly passed away leaving Shirley a widow. In 1995, she married John Lanahan, a colleague of Louis, and Shirley moved to McClain, VA. She cared for John until he lost his battle with cancer, at which time she returned to the St. Louis area. She continued to enjoy her membership in The Garden Appreciation Club of St. Louis whose members were so dear to her.
John Voss began working for Shirley over 25 years ago. They had a very special relationship. She looked at John as the son she never had.

Her home was filled with treasures she collected during her travels. She enjoyed Southwest America almost as much as London!

Shirley leaves a huge hole in the hearts of many, but her memory lives on through those who knew her. She leaves behind friends of many years: John Voss of Sullivan, MO, Brian Banner of Washington, DC., and Terry Bridwell of Scottsdale, AZ. Also, she leaves behind her garden club friends and her devoted caregiver Mary Geers.

Visitation Tuesday, May 2, from 9:30am until time of funeral service at 11:00am at Bopp Chapel, 10610 Manchester Rd., in Kirkwood, MO. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery in St. Petersburg, FL. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.

For the wages of sin is death,
But the gift of God is eternal
Life in Christ Jesus, our Lord.
-Romans 6:23

May the mercy and grace of Christ bring you peace.