South Bend, IN – Shirley Jean Munger, formerly of Zephyrhills, Florida, took the hand of Jesus and passed away peacefully on October 20, 2026, at Northwoods Village Memory Care Center in Mishawaka, Indiana.

Shirley was born on April 2, 1938, in Mountain View, Arkansas, to the late Cora (Little) and Eucille “Buzz” Hayworth, who lovingly raised her. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Dean Munger, and her sister, Vera Myers. Shirley was a proud graduate of Central High School in South Bend, Indiana, Class of 1956. That same year she married Dean E. Munger. The two were married on September 29, 1956, in South Bend and remained together for 62 years until his death. Throughout her working years, Shirley was employed by Bremtown Kitchens as a Kitchen Designer, Gordy’s Furniture Store and various other businesses.

Shirley leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory, including her children, Julie (Phil) Gadson and Jeff (Maureen) Munger; her grandchildren, Adam (Elizabeth) Gadson, Lauren (John) Rammel, Andrew (Lindsey) Gadson, and Rachel (Jason) Freeman; and her eight great-grandchildren, Lydia, Grace, Levi, Joy, Daniel, Liam, Matthew, and Alex. She is also survived by her brother, Eugene “Buzz”(Debbie) Hayworth, and brother-in-law, Marlin Myers, and many nieces, nephews, friends and associates.

A woman of faith, Shirley was a dedicated member of Albright United Methodist Church in Mishawaka, and Trinity Church in Wesley Chapel, FL where she faithfully served in the church choirs amongst other activities. Her faith was an important part of her life, and she found joy in serving her church family and welcoming others with warmth and kindness.

She enjoyed square dancing, painting, and was a marvelous cook. She also had a special gift for making others feel welcome, taking the time to greet new neighbors and help them feel at home in the community. Shirley’s loving heart, welcoming spirit, and devotion to her faith will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

The family will receive friends on Monday, October 26, from 12:00 p.m. until 1:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 1:00 p.m., all at Chapel Hill Funeral Home in Osceola, Indiana.

Shirley will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Dean Munger, in Building #2 Mausoleum at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Osceola immediately following the funeral service.

Chapel Hill Funeral Home in Osceola, Indiana, has been entrusted with the arrangements.