Shirley Jean Rhine

Shirley Rhine (nee Nickel) was a lovely and gentle light for this world. As a daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and friend, she cared deeply for those she loved. For decades, she opened her heart and home to family and friends and welcomed many friends yet-to-be. She was a steady, quiet, and loving presence in every room she graced. As communication for Shirley became difficult, a word, a simple gesture, and her smile continued to channel love to her family and to her caregivers.

Shirley was preceded in death by her loving husband of 62 years, Jack Rhine, and her son, Kenneth, who died a few months after birth. She is remembered with much love and affection by her three sons, Michael (Melissa), Paul (Christine), and Carl (Grace). Cherished by her six grandchildren, Marlon (Nancy), Melody (Steven), Laura (Noe), Jacob, Andrew, and Veronica, and her nine great-grandchildren, Mia, Melanie, Niall, Ethan, Roselle, Ellie, Laila, Penelope, and Nathan.

Shirley was born in Indianapolis, Indiana to Curtis and Nellie (Price) Nickel and had one brother, David. She graduated from Methodist Hospital School of Nursing in 1955 and devoted her life in service for others through her work as a registered nurse. She cared for people in their homes as a private duty nurse, and for many years at Westview Hospital and at the Girl’s School in Indianapolis.

Shirley loved nature, especially birds, dogs, and flower gardening. An avid crafter, she knitted and crocheted well into her eighties, making treasured heirlooms for her family. She was a huge Yahtzee and Scrabble fan. She loved to host large family gatherings, especially on Thanksgiving and Christmas. Baking was her specialty and family fondly remembers her desserts, especially Cherry Delight and No-Bake cookies.

Shirley’s faith and hope in God was central to how she lived of her life. Her Bible is filled with underlined Scriptures and words to remember, written in the margins. The gift of love, given to her by our Creator, was held deeply in her soul, and, in turn, she freely shared this love with others. Shirley’s legacy to us is love.

You are invited to join the family on Saturday, September 5th at 11:00am at the Washington Park North Funeral Center, 2706 Kessler Boulevard West Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46228, for a celebration of her life.

Donations may be given in memory of Shirley to the Alzheimer’s Association.