Shirley Elizabeth Thrall Klein, 97 years old, passed peacefully on December 19, 2024. Shirley was born on July 7 in Buffalo, NY, however she and her family moved to Florida in 1966. She was the daughter of Charles and Florence (Duthie) Johnston. Shirley married Charles Thrall (deceased) in Buffalo, NY, on April 24, 1948, and then resided in Cheektowaga and Williamsville, NY. Shirley and Charles had two sons, Charles and Alan (Stephaney). Shirley had a bonus “daughter”, Marjorie. On January 28, 1989, Shirley married Julius Klein (deceased).
Shirley was the loving grandmother to 3 grandchildren: Charissa, Kevin (Alison), Lindsay (Devin); 6 great-grandchildren: Elyssa, Jenna, Dominic, Saralyn, Brooke and Maddox; and 1 great-great grandson, Luka, and many other extended family members. Shirley had one brother, Garnet, who predeceased her in 2023. Shirley was a passionate volunteer for Sarasota Memorial Hospital, with over 10,000 volunteer hours. She was a member of the Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, in Sarasota. Shirley was an active member of New Life Lutheran Church, previously Holy Cross Lutheran, where she previously taught Sunday School. She was loved by all who met her and she impacted numerous lives.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to New Life Lutheran Church, Sarasota, or to Special Olympics, Sarasota.
Shirley will be remembered for her unwavering dedication to the care of her son, Charles, her love for dogs and her overall caregiving spirit. She will be missed by many. Until we meet again…
