Shirley Jean Gudgel, 85, of Springfield, passed away Friday, February 28, 2025. She was born on February 16, 1940, daughter of Melvin E. and Mattie Opal Brown Ballard. Shirley married, Charles Richard Gudgel on February 22, 1971, and he preceded her in death on January 14, 2022.

She is also preceded in death by her parents; brother, Jerry Ballard; and sister, Betty Brown.

She is survived by her son, Bill (Sandy) Williams of Athens; grandchildren, Seth (Brooke) Williams of Auburn, Leah (Nick) Bestudik of Mechanicsburg, Jacob (Ali) Williams of Springfield, and Angelynn Williams of Havana; two step grandchildren, Andrew and Austin; eight great grandchildren; brother, Melvin Ballard of Chatham; sisters, Joyce (Richard) Stults of Mechanicsburg, Beverly Kluge Gilbert of Springfield, Judy (Larry) Long of Springfield, and Barbara Hart (Richard) Stanton of Springfield, and Elaine (Richard) Vogt of Sherman.

Shirley was a resident of Springfield for most of her life where she worked at Sangamo Electric Assembly and Hobbs. She was a faithful member of Grace Baptist Church.

Shirley had many hobbies including listening to her favorite music genres, country and bluegrass. She also loved to travel when she could.

Visitation: 9:00 – 11:00 am, Monday March 10, 2025, at Staab Funeral Home – Springfield.

Funeral Service: 11:00 am, Monday March 10, 2025, at Staab Funeral Home – Springfield with Pastor Marty Montgomery officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Protective League.

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