Shirley Lee Burdette

Shirley Lee Burdette, 91, of Dennison passed away peacefully on August 10, 2026 at her home in New Philadelphia, Ohio, surrounded by her loving family. Born June 18, 1935 in Jewett, Ohio she was a daughter of the late Orrville Francis and Georgia Lee (Orr) Taylor.

Shirley was a homemaker, raising 5 children whom she loved deeply. She was also a co-owner of Ray’s Tavern in Dennison for 24 years. She attended Conotton Valley where she was a cheerleader. She absolutely adored her family, and was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. She was a die-hard fan of the Cleveland Indians baseball team, and enjoyed attending several games. Shirley was a breast cancer survivor, and fought valiantly for many years.

On May 29, 1953 she married Ray L. Burdette, Sr. with whom she enjoyed 43 years of marriage until his passing on April 23, 1996. She is survived by her 4 children, Bob (Brenda) Burdette of Dennison, Ray L. Burdette, Jr. of Uhrichsville, Vickie Quarles of New Philadelphia, and Randy (Susan) Burdette of Dennison; 13 grandchildren; 24 great grandchildren; and 22 great, great grandchildren. Shirley is also survived by her sister, Barb Adams of Newcomerstown and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, she is preceded in death by her daughter, Tammy Burdette; son, Michael Burdette; brothers, Ralph, Vernon, Robert, Orrville “Butch”, and Ronald Taylor; sister, Betty (Taylor) Slentz; and daughter-in-law, Vickie Burdette.

Services for Shirley, officiated by Pastor Jim Shamel, will be held at the R.K. Lindsey Funeral Home on Friday, August 14 at 11 AM. The family will welcome callers at the funeral home on Thursday, August 13 from 4 PM to 7 PM. Those wishing to make a charitable donation in Shirley’s honor may do so to Ohio’s Hospice and The Breast Cancer Research Foundation.