Shirley Mae Axelrod

She was preceded in death by her husband Boris Axelrod, her parents Richard and Mildred Williams and her sister Doris Barrale. She is survived by her sons David (Linda) Smith and Robert (Teresa) Smith. Loving grandmother to Chad (Brandi), Brian (Amanda), Matthew (Grace) and Adam (Carrie) Smith. Proud great grandmother to Thatcher, Samuel, Olivine, Orion, Ophelia, Ozzie and Aiden Smith.

Shirley lived most of her life in St. Louis. After graduating from Beaumont High School she lived several years in Little Rock Arkansas. Upon returning to St. Louis with her two sons she went to work at the Jewish Hospital of St. Louis where she met her loving husband Bo. After their marriage she left the workforce to care for and raise her two sons. Once her sons were grown she went to work in the Health Administration Program at the Washington University School of Medicine where she made several close friends before retiring in 1993. After retirement she became active as a volunteer at the Missouri Botanical Garden and was a supporter of The St. Louis Zoo through the Friends of the St. Louis Zoo program.

Shirley was a long time resident of Executive House Condominiums where she called the staff and friends her second family.

Shirley’s friendship and kindness will be missed by all. Interment will be private.

Donations may be made in Shirley’s memory to the Missouri Botanical Garden or a charity of your choice.