J. Shirley Champion, 75, of Machesney Park went to be with the Lord on Monday, December 10, 2018 with her family by her side. Shirley was born on October 17, 1943 in Rockford, the daughter of Eric and Helen (Kolesky) Nyman. Shirley was a devoted Christian that modeled Jesus as an outstanding member of Harvest Bible Church.
Shirley was a joy filled; friend, counselor, comforter, challenger, cheerleader, comedian, caregiver and handy person. With her beautifully contagious laughter she touched many with her genuine personality, a trait we all aspire to have in life. As the matriarch of her family; she showed unwavering support for her children, was a revered best friend to her granddaughters, and found great joy in spending time with her great grandchildren. By virtue of her gifts in life, her spirit will live on through us all.
Shirley is survived by her daughters: Robyne Novak and Wendy (Jim) Himmel; son Tom Williams; grandchildren: Amanda (Phil) Rezin, Haley Novak, Taylor (Matt) Reinke and Ashley (Mike) Ricci; great-granddaughters: Addison and Hadley; great-grandsons: Michael and Antonio; sister-in-law Marylou Nyman. Shirley was preceded in death by her parents Eric and Helen, sister Connie Coffman, brother Randy Nyman and son-in-law Kevin Green.
Service to celebrate Shirley’s life will be 11:00 am Friday, December 14, 2018 at Harvest Bible Church 5501 Windsor Road in Loves Park. Visitation from 9:00 am until 11:00 am on Friday at the church. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Condolences may be sent to www.sunsetfhmemgardens.com
