Shirley J. Garner, age 95, of Bowling Green, formerly of Wayne, Ohio passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 5, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on October 8, 1931, in Bradner to the late Earl and Minnie (Fortlander) Fretter. Shirley married William “Hank” Garner on July 8, 1950, in Wayne, and he preceded her in passing on November 3, 1994. She also had 8 years of companionship with Edward Wichman until his passing in April 2015.
Surviving Shirley are her daughters, Peggy Schroeder of Wayne, Deborah Hansen of Bradner; five grandchildren, Shannon (Terry) James, Shelley (Jeff) Kline, Heather (Mike) Tolles, Kelley (Chad) Stahl, and Kent (Mike) Hansen; 11 great-grandchildren, and 11 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Virginia Burns, Florence Moon; and son-in-law, David Schroeder.
Shirley graduated in 1950 from Bradner High School, and then worked at Fostoria Industries for 28 years, retiring in 1993. She was a member of Village View Church of Christ, the Albert Bowe American Legion Auxiliary, Wayne Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary, and the Bowling Green Senior Center.
Some of her great likes were playing cards, being with family, visiting friends in the nursing homes, and crocheting table clothes for her two daughters and five grandchildren. She also loved going to sports games of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and enjoyed watching the Little League World Series and football.
Friends will be received from 2-7 PM on Monday, November 9, 2026, at Barndt Funeral Home in Wayne, Ohio, where a Celebration of Life Service will be held on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at 11 AM with Pastor David Boswell officiating. Burial will be at Graham Cemetery near Wayne. Memorial donations may be made to the Wayne Volunteer Fire Department or to the American Cancer Society. Online condolences can be sent to Shirley’s family at www.barndtfuneralhome.org.
