Shirley Marie (LeBeau) Dennis

Shirley was born on March 24, 1942, to Otto and Grace LeBeau. She graduated from Jackson High School in 1960. Shirley met Dan Dennis in 1958, and after dating for six years, the two were married in 1964.

Following graduation, Shirley worked for The Timken Company until 1966. After mandatory maternity leave from the company, she joined the family business, Green Thumb Nursery, Inc., founded in 1956 by Dan’s parents, Tom and Alice Dennis. Shirley became a pivotal part of Green Thumb, working alongside her husband Dan, brother-in-law Jack Dennis, and sister-in-law Mary Dennis. Together, they built and sustained a successful business for more than 50 years. Shirley served as Treasurer of Green Thumb until her retirement in 2006.

Shirley was a 41-year breast cancer survivor. Following her recovery from surgery, she volunteered with the local American Cancer Society chapter, supporting women and men affected by breast cancer. She participated in many local fundraising walks, as well as events in Central Park in New York City, helping raise awareness and support for cancer research.

Shirley was an avid water skier. She and Dan would take their daughters, family and friends to “The Farm” for weekends during the summer. Days were spent water skiing on Salt Fork Lake followed by fun filled evenings, laughter, fellowship and delicious meals prepared by Shirley.

During the winter months, Shirley and Dan enjoyed spending time at their beloved “Beach House” on Ft. Myers Beach. Ever welcoming, kind, and thoughtful, Shirley hosted countless family members and friends at their “slice of heaven.” She especially enjoyed walking on the soft white sand, reading books, and watching beautiful sunsets.

Shirley’s greatest joy was her family and friends. She cherished being a daughter, sister, wife, aunt, mother, and grandmother. Whether hosting a party, cooking a meal, attending her grandchildren’s activities, gathering with her card club, or meeting friends at McDonald’s for morning coffee, these moments were among her most treasured.

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, Dan Dennis, who lovingly called her “Shirl the Pearl.” She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Lisa and Jim Brady, and Danielle and Jake Dragomire; grandchildren Sarah Brady, Ronan Brady, and Keirra Dragomire; sister-in-law Joan LeBeau; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

A memorial visitation will be held on Thursday, June 11, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Karlo-Libby Funeral Home, 5000 Everhard Road NW, Canton, Ohio.

A second memorial visitation will be held on Friday, June 12, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church, 349 Lindy Lane Avenue NW, North Canton, Ohio. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. Shirley will be laid to rest at North Lawn Cemetery. Please visit www.karlofh.com to share condolences and memories with the family.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Little Pink Ribbon Girl Foundation at littlepinkribbongirl.org