Shirley Ann Gruell

Shirley A. Gruell, 84, of Connersville died Sunday afternoon, October 1, 2017 at Heritage House of Connersville. Shirley was born in Owensboro, Kentucky on January 1, 1933, the daughter of Dale Sylvester and Lena Corinne Carraway Meek. She graduated from Harrisburg High School in 1951. Shirley was married on October 9, 1953 to Bobbie Gruell, who died December 28, 2011. She was previously employed at General Electric, Philco Ford and its predecessors, Hooks Drugstore, Sarah Coventry Jewelry and was also an Avon Sales Representative. Shirley was a member of First Baptist Church and was commonly known as “the purple lady” for her love of the color purple. In her leisure time, she enjoyed traveling and shopping. Shirley’s priority was always taking care of her family. Shirley is survived by her sons: Jeffrey Gruell of Connersville and Mark Gruell of Greensburg. In addition to her parents and Bobbie, her husband of fifty-eight years, Shirley is preceded in death by her son: Dana Ray Gruell and her siblings: Robert D. Meek, Leslie L. Hammer, Charles W. Hammer and Hazel M. Oliver. Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Friday, October 6, 2017 at First Baptist Church, Connersville with Pastor Mal Gibson officiating. Interment will follow in Dale Cemetery. Friends may visit at the church Friday from 12 p.m. until the time of service where memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church. For additional information and to send condolences or memories, go to www.ShowalterBlackwellLong.com