Shirley Mae Haines,86, passed away peacefully Thursday, August 21, 2025 following a long battle with Alzheimer's disease surrounded by the love of her family.  She was born July 19, 1939 in Sanborn, PA to the late Oliver and Dorothy (Baughman) Haines.

Shirley was an Elyria resident for over 30 years, where she devoted her life to raising her five children, volunteering at school and church, and working as a cashier, bookkeeper, restaurateur and nanny. A loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and aunt, Shirley was known for her talents in cooking, baking, and enjoyed gardening, outdoor adventures, music, dancing, jigsaw puzzles and spending time with her family. In her later years, Shirley cherished listening to music, especially the recordings of her Baughman aunts, keeping the love of music alive throughout her life.

Shirley is survived by her children, Michael Gmerek (Virgie) of Westerville, OH, Theresa Wolf (Brian) of Ft. Wayne, IN, Kathleen Arth (Charles) of South Euclid, OH, Barbara Gmerek of Old Hickory, TN and Sandy Mooser (David) of Grafton, OH.  Additional survivors include her grandchildren Miranda Gmerek, Brittany Crawford (Adam), Erin Burke (Sean), Brian Wolf Jr. (Sarah), Jacob Gmerek (Amanda), Emily Cassell (Matthew), Rebekah Wolf and Joseph Arth; great-grandchildren Adonais, Izaiah, Ezekiel, Christopher, Everett, Henry, Colin and Sloane; a brother Ronald Haines (Donna) of Duncansville, PA; many nieces, nephews and extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister Nancy Harchak, a brother Robert Haines and former husbands Jim Lear and Jerry Gmerek.

The family expresses their appreciation for the care provided by Country View of Sunbury and Bella Care Hospice.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM Friday, September 26, 2025 at the Laubenthal Mercado Funeral Home, 38475 Chestnut Ridge Road, Elyria, OH 44035 (440)322-4626 where a celebration of Shirley's life will be held at 7:00 PM immediately following visitation.  Reverend Chuck Behrens will officiate.  Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Country View of Sunbury, Bella Care Hospice Columbus or the Alzheimer's Association in Shirley's name. https://events.alz.org/fundraisers/barbaragmerek/a-tribute-to-mom

Online condolences to the family may be expressed at www.laubenthalmercado.com.