Obituary

Shirley Jean Strachan, 89, of Johnstown, passed away on January 8, 2025. She was born on August 7, 1935, to the late Robert and Alda (Hyatt) Miller of Meyersdale, PA. Shirley is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 62 years, Bill; her parents; and her sister, Janet Heiss. She is survived by her devoted children, Robin Strachan, Susan LaLima (John), John Strachan (Tina Burgess), and Jenny Allen (Ed); her cherished grandchildren, Lauren Fritts (Tim), Liz Kirkpatrick (Ryan), Emily Fabick (Simon Yeung), Devon Strachan, Trevor Strachan, and Chelsey Allen (Mel Rosario); and her adored great-grandchildren, Caroline and William Fritts and Maggie and Tommy Kirkpatrick. Shirley was a proud graduate of Meyersdale High School (Class of 1953) and went on to complete her studies at Conemaugh Valley Memorial Hospital School of Nursing in 1956. She dedicated more than 40 years of her life as a compassionate and skilled registered nurse at Conemaugh Valley Memorial Hospital, Arbutus Village, and Mercy Nursing Care Center. An exceptionally talented seamstress, Shirley lovingly sewed bridesmaid dresses for two of her daughters’ weddings, created hand-sewn baby dolls for family members and charity auctions, crafted countless beautiful quilts and quilted purses, and had the greenest of green thumbs in the garden. Her creativity, warmth, and dedication extended to all aspects of her life, whether in her amazing cooking, her unwavering love of her family, or the joy she brought to her friends, neighbors, and co-workers. Shirley’s infectious laugh and kind spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Shirley was a resident of Laurel View Village in Davidsville, where she received attentive and loving care. Her family is deeply grateful to the excellent staff for their kindness and compassion, and to her neighbors and friends who made Laurel View Village a home. Family will receive friends on Saturday, January 18, 2025, from 9:00am til the time of the memorial service at 11:00am at Second Presbyterian Church, 565 Park Ave., Johnstown, PA 15902. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Laurel View Village Caring Fund or Second Presbyterian Church. Arrangements in care of Hindman Funeral Homes & Crematory Inc., “Exclusive Provider of Veterans and Family Memorial Care.” Condolences may be made at HindmanFuneralHome.com.