Shirley M. Pettit

Shirley Mae (Laukfuf) Pettit passed away unexpectedly September 29, 2016 in Orlando, FL at the age of 81. She is survived by her sisters, Marilyn (Laukhuf) Dargatz of Springboro, Ohio and Elaine (Laukhuf) Milan of Milwaukee, WI. She is preceded in death by her father, Oscar Laukhuf and her mother, Lucile (Guingrich) Laukhuf Shealy; countless cousins and other relatives; her nieces, Gretchen Dargatz, Rebecca (Harmon) George, Emily (Dargatz) Greer and Carol Harmon; and her nephews, Curtis Harmon, Randall Harmon and Eric Dargatz. She is also survived by the many friends who were her surrogate family in Florida. Shirley was born on December 8, 1934 in Paulding County, OH. She graduated from Payne High School in 1952 and then attended Bowling Green University where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education in 1956. While at Bowling Green, she was a proud member of Alpha Xi Delta Sorority and during that time was appointed ROTC Queen. Upon graduation, she relocated to Pennsylvania and then proceeded to Madison, WI where she pursued what would become her passion – her degree in Library Science. She completed this degree with Master of Arts from the University of South Florida in August, 1972. She was working at several different schools as a librarian for the Orange County Schools. In 1973 she was promoted to Administrator of Orange County Public Schools Media Programs. Those who knew Shirley will remember her love of Disney, travel, her pets, and her beloved Hummel and bear collections. She remained incredibly active throughout her adult life, serving in various capacities for the organizations which she loved: Alpha Xi Delta Alumni Association, the Orange County Retired Educators Association, American Needlepoint Guild, Embroiderers’ Guild of America, and others. She also did some Ballroom dancing and participated in some competitions. She successfully overcame cancer this year and was deemed cancer free after treatments. Throughout her battle, she never lost her zest for life. Recently she had fallen several times which set in motion the events leading to her passing. Her crematory remains will be buried in Paulding County, OH next to her parents. Shirley was a great friend to all and never met a stranger. A celebration of life gathering will be determined by the family at a later date. Please check back for details. Memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association, or any of your choice.

Shirley M. Pettit

December 8, 1934 - September 29, 2016