Our Beloved, Shirley E Gerz (Phillips) 89, of Lancaster, daughter of the late Harry and Elsie Phillips has joined them in peace on October 7, 2018. She is survived by her husband of 70 years, Richard Gerz, Sr., as well as her two children, son, Richard Jr. (husband of Anne Murry) and daughter, Sherran (wife of David Payne, Sr.), 5 grandchildren, and 13 great grandchildren.
Shirley began her career as a secretary at Hamilton Watch. But her highest career achievement was being a mom, a grandma, and a GG. Family was her greatest joy throughout her life. She filled everyone she met with her strength, energy, and most of all love. Shirley enjoyed creating a beautiful and loving home of which flower gardening was a great part.
The family will hold a private service at their convenience. If you wish to make a donation in her memory, please mail contributions to Hospice and Community care in her name.
8 Comments To "Shirley E. Gerz"
#1 Comment By Patti Heiland Baxter On October 9, 2018 @ 11:24 pm
Don’t forget Godmother! I will remember so many things about Aunt Shirley and the great family gatherings at the beach and cottage. Loved how she would tilt her head back and laugh. Her home was a masterpiece. She loved decorating for Christmas and it was magical to see. Her heart was filled with pride for her family. They meant everything to her. I miss you and can’t believe you’re gone!
#2 Comment By Amy Meli On October 10, 2018 @ 8:36 am
I am so sorry for your loss, but so happy that she has entered eternity with her Savior! She has always been the kindest most loving woman and will be missed!! I have been so blessed to have known her. Thank you for sharing your angel on earth with me!! Prayers and love, the Meli family❤️
#3 Comment By Angi Caldwell On October 10, 2018 @ 10:18 am
I am sorry to hear of her passing. I remember going to their home as a kid with my Nan, Dorothy Caldwell ( Gerz ) and thinking it was like a Winter Wonderland during the Holidays. Such a beautiful home and an even more beautiful Woman. Keeping the Family in my thoughts and prayers.
#4 Comment By Bo Ranck On October 14, 2018 @ 10:23 pm
Noticed Shirley’s obituary and would like to send my condolences She was such a nice lady and I’m sure she’ll really be missed. I hope you are all doing well and will pray for you during this difficult time .Love Bo
#5 Comment By Sherran Payne On October 21, 2018 @ 9:10 pm
Thank you Bo!! Mom has spoken of the good times when your girls and Kelly were young as recently as the past few months. Mother’s love is all around us and will help us at this difficult time.
Sherran
#6 Comment By Linda M Greineder On October 15, 2018 @ 12:33 pm
So sorry to hear of her passing but happy she is in Heaven now. I remember walking over in grade school to be with Sherran, my childhood friend, and noting how kind her mother was. Mick and I offer our heartfelt sympathy to Sherran, Dick, and Mr Gerz.
#7 Comment By Fran Lombardo Spangler On October 19, 2018 @ 7:56 am
To the Gerz family,
I remember Shirley from when we were growing up on W. Vine St. She was always such a nice person. She was a friend of my mother’s, even though mom was older than her.
Prayers go out to you and your entire family. I will offer mass up for her on Sunday, and light a candle in her memory.
#8 Comment By Sherran Payne On October 21, 2018 @ 9:13 pm
Thank you Fran for sharing your remembrance of our Mother. Your prayers and candle lighting are much appreciated. Mother’s endless love will help us through these difficult times.
Sherran