Shirley Crist's Obituary
Shirley Irene Crist passed away peacefully in her sleep on the morning of April 13, 2010 at the age of 81. The daughter of Albert G. and Alice F. Harnish, she was born in Toledo, OH and raised in Boston, MA. In her youth she played the snare drum in her high school marching band, was a tap dancer, and an avid reader. During World War II she was a Civil Air Patrol Cadet when she met the love of her life, Oscar Bennett Crist, a Seaman in the Navy. They were married and had 50 wonderful years together until his death in 1998. They settled in Rockville, MD where they raised their children. Mrs. Crist spent a great deal of her career as the box office manager for Shady Grove Music Fair in Gaithersburg, MD and as a volunteer in the theatrical venues where her children performed. Shirley is survived by her beloved sister, Carol Underhill (George); children, Irene Crist (William Guttenberg), David Crist (Laura), Jacquelyn Crist, and Kerry Crist (Beth Rasin); grandchildren, Jesse Robertson (Moriah), Scott Gaa, Jennifer Lemmonds (Robin), Gregory LaFave, Cpl. Devin LaFave (Ashlee), Bennett Foster (Sally Joyner), Moira Flanagan, Ryan Crist and Maggie Crist; and great-grandchildren, Jaelyn Merchant, Noah, Kaleigh, and Parker Robertson, and Caden Lemmonds. When she moved to Memphis almost 4 years ago, she became the central figure at family gatherings. Shirley was a member of Lewis Senior Center where she played her 70 year old snare drum in the band and was a member of the Camera Club. She will be missed by so many, including her faithful furry friend and companion, Charlie. Visitation will be at Memorial Park Funeral Home on Saturday, April 17 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM and a celebration of her life will be held on Sunday, April 18 at 1:00. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Good Dog Rescue, The Lewis Senior Center or the charity of the donor’s choice. Memorial Park Funeral Home (901) 767-8930
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