Sue Shirrell

Sue Ellen (Burnell) Shirrell passed away peacefully with her daughters by her side on March 22, 2024, in Franklin, Indiana, at the age of 69. She was born August 17, 1954, in Indianapolis, Indiana.

She was a beloved mother to Rita (Brent) Holman, Sarah (Dan) Bradley, and Carah (Jeremy) Derloshon, and a cherished grandmother to Emma, Makena, Clay, Malakai, Addison, Jack, Kaiden, and Nora. She was a loving sister to Ike, Donna, Mary, and Beth. Sue was preceded in death by her husband Tom, to whom she was married for 30 years, as well as her parents, Wallace and Dorothy Burnell, and her brother, Charlie.

She was a graduate of Whiteland Community High School, Class of 1972. She held a variety of jobs over the years, including serving in a school cafeteria and providing in-home childcare. The position which gave her the greatest joy was her role as custodian of Christ United Methodist Church in Indianapolis. She was known for her creativity and enjoyed crafting, spending time with her family and friends, caring for her pets, and going to the movies.

She was a founding member of Vineyard Church of Greenwood, a founding member of New Community Church of Martinsville, and attended Mt. Gilead Church in Mooresville.

She will be remembered for her infectious smile, her goofy nature, and her big heart. She was truly special, tremendously loved, and sassy in the most wonderful way. Sue’s loyalty, strength, and resilience were admired by all who knew her. She was patient, forgiving, and genuine, making her one heck of a daughter, sister, wife, mom, Grammy, and friend. Sue’s beauty inside and out will forever be cherished by those whose lives she touched.

A private Celebration of Life will be held by the family to honor Sue. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Walk to End Alzheimer’s in memory of Sue at http://act.alz.org/goto/sarahbradley24.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Cremation Society of Indiana.

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