Shirley Irene Roby

Shirley Roby passed away on Friday, March 13, 2026, with her family by her side. Shirley was born on September 20, 1947, in Columbus, Ohio to the late Wilbur and Louise (Woodyard) Smith. She graduated from Johnstown High School In 1965. She was a forever Johnnie attending football games, band concerts, and musicals. She also graduated from Columbus Business University where she gained not only job skills but lifelong friends.

She often joked about a fictional “Shirley’s world” which may have defined who she was. “Shirley’s world” was full of kindness, family and no stress. In the real world she touched many people through her work and personal life. As an administrative assistant, she supported many professionals. In her most recent position with financial planners, she valued the relationships she built helping clients. She knew them by name, knew their families, their stories and made them feel comfortable.

As a Licking County 4-H Advisor, Shirley guided many youth to build skills that helped them be successful as adults. Whether doing demonstrations in the club or practicing skills, 4-H members could count on Shirley and her fellow advisor to be there supporting them.

Shirley was a long-time member of Miller Memorial Global Methodist Church. She grew up in the church alongside her parents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Attending and serving the church was an important part of her life.

“Shirley’s world” was full of fun and family. On November 12, 1967, Shirley married David Roby and enjoyed 59 years of adventures with him. They cultivated a circle of friends who supported each other as their families grew. Their card parties were legendary and the snacks even more so. The Caahd ladies even created their own cookbook to share the recipes for their culinary delights.

Dave and Shirley enjoyed traveling. Trips to Henry Ford Museum, Gatlinburg, Florida and Montana built memories. Later in life, they discovered a love of taking cruises. This opened up new adventures with their cruising buddies in parts of the world they never thought they would see.

Her greatest joy was her family. Shirley devoted her time to raising her daughters – supporting them at school events like band competitions and throughout their participation in 4-H. When her grandchildren entered the scene, she embraced being a grandmother. She became known for her tea parties continuing them for her great nieces.

Shirley is survived by her husband, David. Her children: Christy (Richard) Millhouse of Anna, OH and Karen Roby of Johnstown, OH. She is also survived by her brother, Steve (Ann) Smith of Pickerington, OH and sister-in-law Sharon (Dale) Rhodes of Stevensville, MT. Grandchildren: Caitlyn (Hunter) Owens and Andrew (Malaina) Millhouse. Great Granddaughter: Sophia Lenora Owens. She loved her niece Carrie (Brian) Skinner and nephews Brad (Angela) Smith, Tyler (Erika) Rhodes and Bryan Rhodes. Great nieces Cameron, Carley, Lauren, Jillian, Hazel, and Kierin and great nephew, Caleb, also held a special place in her heart.

Visitation will be held March 19 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Miller Memorial Global Methodist Church and 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. on Friday, March 20 with funeral services following at 10:30 a.m. at the church with Reverend Timo Barbosa officiating assisted by Reverend David Woodyard and Reverend Cal Alexander. Burial will be at Green Hill Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Licking County 4-H Program.