Shirley Ann Merlington

Shirley Ann Merlington age 83 of cedar Springs, died Sunday, October 4, 2020 at her son’s home surrounded by family. Shirley was born in Cedar Springs on July 23, 1937 to Murville “Charlie” and Shirley (Empie) Misner. She and her husband Ronny were lifelong Cedar Springs residents. Shirley was Executive Director of the Red Flannel Festival for 13 years and was Grand Marshal in 2015. She also served as Director of the Cedar Springs Chamber of Commerce for 12 years, served on the Cedar Springs Board of Education, Cedar Springs Women’s Club, Glen Hill Unit Past President, and was 5th District President of The American Legion Women’s Auxiliary. Other positions include the Board of Review, the DDA, the Elections Commission and the Selective Service Board. In her early years she won Miss Sand Lake Pageant and competed in the Miss Michigan Pageant finishing in the top four. Shirley and Ronny loved everything that had to do with Cedar Springs! In their retirement years, Shirley and Ronny loved going to the “Soaring Eagle”. She was very passionate about her Michigan State Spartans. Surviving are her children, Dominic and Christine Merlington, Robert and Amy Merlington; grandchildren, Rebekah Merlington, Robert Burmeister, Kristofer Merlington, Ethan Robinson, Elizabeth Robinson; sisters, Verdena (Jude) Martin, Lou Ellen (Gene) Fisk, Marlene Ledford, Joyce Johnson; many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ronny; siblings, Nancy Westervelt, Janet Hunt, Mick and Arlo Misner. The family will greet friends Wednesday, Oct. 7 from 2-4 and 6-8 pm at the Bliss-Witters & Pike Funeral Home, Cedar Springs. A private family service will be held Thursday. Interment at Elmwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Cedar Springs Community Building Development Team 15022 Ritchie Ave. Cedar Springs, MI 49319.