Shirley A. (Bonnell) Reeder

     Shirley A. Reeder, 89, of Montoursville, passed away into the Lord's waiting arms at last on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2017, at Valley View Rehab and Nursing Center where she resided for the past four years. Following her declining health for many years, she was anxiously looking forward to joining her husband Bud, daughter Janis, and grandson Chris.

     Born August 2, 1928, in White Pine, she was a daughter of the late Clifford S. and Ida E. (Hughes) Bonnell.

     Shirley married her childhood sweetheart and the love of her life, Harry P. "Bud" Reeder in 1946 after he returned from the war. They had many happy times together over 52 years of marriage until his passing on March 6, 1999. Cherished in her memory were the family get together's with Bud's family. Shirley and Bud spent many winters in Florida with her sister Ann and husband Elwood Morean enjoying the good life, however, the most precious times were spent with their grandchildren, whether at their house, camping trips, or fishing trips it was all fun times.

     Shirley was a well sought after seamstress in the garment industry and worked for Sylvania, Mina's Bridal and Prom Shop, and later sold Avon. She was known for making beautiful quilts and her homemade coconut cream pies. Shirley was a member of Mill Creek United Methodist Church for more than 50 years. She loved the Lord and held many positions at church, where everyone was like family to her.

     Her most creative and prized talent was her gift of oil painting. She painted on canvas, mirrors, antique jugs and other antiques, circular saws, to cross cuts. She also held painting classes in her garage.

     Shirley is survived by a daughter, Gloria J. Ferguson (George), of Hughesville; a grandson, Eric P. Boyles (Jen); two granddaughters, Traci L. Helmrich (Bob) and Kathi J. Hunter; six great-grandchildren, Marissa and Brianna Helmrich, Sherri, Phoenix, and Orion Boyles, and Mandon Watts; a sister, Ann Morean; special sister-in-law, Nancy Reeder; and brother-in-law, Ken Reeder (Aldine); and many beloved nieces and nephews.

     In addition to her husband and parents she was preceded in death by her daughter, Janis L. Boyles-Foresman; a grandson, Christopher D. Boyles; two brothers, Bruce E. Bonnell and Pat "Clyde" Bonnell, and their wives; and a sister, Dorothy "Dot" Garman.

     A graveside service to honor the life of Shirley will be held 10 a.m. Monday, September 18, in Twin Hills Memorial Park, 3332 Lycoming Mall Road, Muncy. A viewing will be held from 6 until 8 p.m. Sunday, September 17, at Knight-Confer Funeral Home, 1914 Memorial Ave., Williamsport.

     In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Shirley's name to Mill Creek United Methodist Church, 2255 Warrensville Road, Montoursville, PA 17754.

     With deep gratitude the family would like to thank the staff of Valley View Rehab and Nursing Center including Kathy and Byron and many others for the compassion and excellent care given to Shirley.
 

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