Shirley Mareske

Shirley Ann Griffin Mareske, 75, of West Logan , passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 27, at Trinity Healthcare at Henlawson. Born June 27, 1934, in Ellijay , Georgia , she was the daughter of the late Lear and Loral Griffin of Whitman. Also preceding her in death was her husband Sant Mareske, sisters and brother-in-laws, Sulane and Tommy Zappia , Sarah and Jim Muschera, and Errol Stokley; and brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Ermet and Jean Mareske. She was a member of the First Christian Church of Logan where, until her illness, she was a loyal member of the church choir. Many people will remember Shirley for her many dedicated years of service as a long time employee of Lilly's Crown Jewelers in Logan . Shirley had a true passion for any type of jewelry, diamonds, gems, gold, silver, china and crystal. Both women and men relied on her skill and advice when it came to the selection of a special purchase. From ear piecing to diamond quality, Shirley was the one to count on. She came to the "rescue" of many husbands and boyfriends when a last minute gift was needed. In addition, Shirley played a role in the lives of most anyone in the Logan area who became engaged and married during the 1970's, 80's, and early 90's. Shirley was there, from the purchase of the engagement ring, the selection of a china/silver pattern, and then she often acted as the "Wedding Director" for countless ceremonies. Her style, grace, and special talent helped to ensure that each wedding went smoothly and that each couple would feel confident with Shirley in charge of their ceremony. However, her greatest love and what she took the most pride in was her family. Shirley is survived by two sons and daughters-in-laws; Mark and Leigh Mareske of West Logan, and David and Sonja Mareske of Charlotte , North Carolina . From these unions, she received her most valued and loved "jewels," her five devoted grandchildren; Amy, Adam, and Alex Mareske of West Logan, and Nicole and Stephen Mareske of Charlotte , NC . Others left to cherish her memory are two sisters, Mary Frances Stokley of Greensboro, NC and Myra (Joe) Deal of Charlotte, NC; two brothers, Willis (Betty) Griffin of Valley View; and Jim Griffin of Myrtle Beach, SC; two sister-in-laws; Susie Mareschi of Micco; Francis (Tommy) Owens of West Logan, brother-in-laws Pete (Eula) Mareske of St. Petersburg, Florida; and Louie (Kay) Mareske of Montgomery, Illinois; and a host of nieces, nephews, and many loved friends. In addition, she leaves behind her two very special and faithful caregivers, Jeanette Johnson and Cordelia Workman, who became Shirley's extended family. Services will be conducted at 1 p.m. Friday, March 5, at the First Christian Church in Logan with Pastor Kenny Hardway and Dr. Charles Wood II officiating. Entombment will follow at Forest Lawn Cemetery at Pecks Mill. Pallbearers will be grandsons; Adam Mareske, Alex Mareske and Stephen Mareske, and nephews; Trey Baisden, Andy Seets, and Chris Stokley. If so desired, memorial contribution may be made to the First Christian Church of Logan . Visitation will be held Thursday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the funeral home. James Funeral Home of Aracoma is in charge of the arrangements