Shirley Ann Yingst

Shirley Yingst, our beloved mother and family matriarch , passed away peacefully at home Friday October 24,2024 at the age of 90. Shirley was the daughter of the late Harry and Loretta Dietz, and the wife of the late Donald J Yingst who passed away in 1998. She was the last surviving sibling in her family. Shirley graduated from Cornwall High School where she served as student council president and captain of the basketball team. Shirley was a 64 year member of St Marks United Methodist church. Early years she supported her husband first by traveling for his military service and later in his car business while caring for her 3 daughters. As they grew up, she began her career journey, working at Floral Creations where she discovered her love of floral arranging. She moved on when they closed, and started her job for the Hershey Company. Fondly known as the “Candy Lady” by friends and family as she always made sure they had the latest candy choice. She loved her job at Hershey, never missing a day of work with the exception of her husband’s death. She retired at the age of 84. She enjoyed participating in her card club in earlier years. Later she looked forward to going to the Dutch Apple and Fulton Theatre, Mother’s Day tea at The Front Porch Tea Room, day trips, shopping and casino evenings with her daughters. She took cake decorating classes and modeled in fashion shows. Shirley had compassion for helping those in need, frequently giving to strangers, and participating in the shoe box drive through her church. Over the past few years she compassionately supported rescued dog groups. She will be missed by Sadie, Sophie and Beau the beloved family dogs. Family was her life. She proudly was the mother of 3 daughters. Diane Kerlin (Frank, Jr.) Dana Aldinger (Jeffrey) and Donna Shenk (Eric). The girls always looked forward to daily phone calls or texts as Shirley was a very sharp lady right up to her death. She loved her grandchildren and wouldn’t miss a soccer game or dance recital. In fact she and her sister Eleanor were asked to leave a High School soccer game for heckling the referee. The team appreciated their enthusiasm and they were proudly invited to the team banquet. Her fan commitment continued through her grandsons’ college years. She was fondly known as Mawmaw by her much loved grandchildren, Frank Kerlin III (Lindsey), Brendan Kerlin, Tyler Aldinger( Erin), Austin Aldinger (Jordan) and Olivia Shenk. They all share memories of family baseball games, Easter egg painting, Holiday meals and family vacations to Rehoboth Beach. She was proceeded in death by her grandson Jordan Kerlin. Her love grew when her great grandchildren arrived. Lowen Kerlin, Blake and Bryce Kerlin, Finley and Asher Aldinger, and Harper Aldinger. They each loved their great Mawmaw and will miss her. The funeral and interment will be held privately on Wednesday, 10/29/25. Donations can be made in Shirley’s memory to Peace Love and Poms dog rescue, PO Box 744, Lebanon Pa 17042 or Donegal Substance abuse Alliance, 78 East Main St Mount Joy Pa 17552.

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Shirley Ann Yingst

July 23, 1935 - October 24, 2025