Shirley Ann Blackledge

Shirley Ann Aitken Blackledge, 99, of Bloomington passed away Tuesday, November 21, 2023 in her home at Meadowood Retirement Community surrounded by family. She was born August 6, 1924 in Midland, IN to William Aitken and Wilma Schauwecker Aitken.

She is survived by her three daughters, Patricia Holmes of Schererville, Judith Talty of Indianapolis and Colleen Talty of Bloomington; four grandchildren, Allison (Brian) Peters, Shana (Dan) Holmes-Bane, Joshua ( Tracey Siewin) Holmes and Mallory Talty; eight great-grandchildren, Jordan Peters, Natalie Peters, Emma Bane, Joshua Holmes, Madison Holmes, Kenyon Talty-Murphy, Aidan Talty-Murphy and Alfie Hawkins; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Lawrence “Wayne” Blackledge; and two sisters, Marjorie Robenhorst and Barbara Moore.

Shirley will long be remembered for her independent nature, adventurous spirit, generosity and selfless love for her family.

A life-long learner and educator, Shirley earned her BS and MS in Education from Indiana University. She taught at James B. Eads Elementary School, Munster, IN, for many years before becoming a guidance counselor at Munster High School.

As a mother, she understood that life’s experiences were better teachers than parental directives. She supported her daughters no matter how questionable their choices were and comforted them with unconditional love during hard times.

Dancing played a big role in Shirley’s life. She couldn’t resist a good beat or melody often making her the lone and happy dancer at public events. She shared her love of dancing with her children, teaching them the jitterbug at an early age. While living in Seattle she met Wayne Blackledge in 1984 . They were married the following year celebrating with a square-dancing wedding. When her husband had a stroke and could no longer be her partner, she discovered line-dancing and quickly advanced from student to teacher. She taught line-dancing well into her 90’s.

Although she traveled extensively throughout the United States, Europe and Asia, she wanted to live her last years in Bloomington, where some of her happiest days were spent. She moved back to Bloomington from Florida 10 years ago living every day to its fullest.

Her loving spirit and laughter will always be missed.

Private Graveside Services were held at Valhalla Memory Gardens in Bloomington, November 28, 2023, under the direction of Day & Deremiah-Frye Funeral Home.

The family would like to extend their thanks to the staff of Elara Caring Hospice for the comfort and care they provided Shirley.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.DayDeremiahFrye.com.