Shirley Maxine Elkin's Obituary
Shirley Maxine Elkin, 85, of Decatur, Illinois, passed away July 28, 2024, in Decatur.
Shirley was born in Iola, Illinois, on March 30, 1939, the daughter of Robert and Hattie (Burgess) Elkin. She had a love of learning that saw her earn a bachelor's degree and then, in 1979, a master's degree in Speech and English. She taught Speech/English at high schools in Decatur for many years. “Miss E” loved her many students over the years and spoke of them often. Shirley’s natural teaching abilities extended outside the classroom and into the community, where she was a motivational speaker who taught others to be public speakers. Her speeches and teaching were fueled by her innate spunk and humor, and she will be remembered for her inspirational presentations.
Shirley had great passion for the Kiwanis Club. She was a longtime member of the Decatur Kiwanis, where she served three terms as president. She served a term as Lieutenant Governor of the state Kiwanis board. She fostered good feelings between Kiwanis chapters around the area by always providing her delicious cinnamon rolls at meetings. Her dedication to the organization was endless. Shirley’s other passions were her many dogs, which she cherished, and the beautiful flowers that she grew in her garden.
Shirley is survived by her niece Mary Ann (Ronnie) Krutsinger of Mt. Vernon, IL, several other nieces, and a nephew. She was preceded in death by her parents and sisters Eileen Hayden and Gerry Grogan.
Funeral services for Shirley will be held on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, at Graceland Fairlawn Funeral Home. Visitation will begin at 10am, and a funeral service will follow at 11am. Burial in Graceland Cemetery will follow the service. Memorials may be directed to the Humane Society of Decatur and Macon County. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
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