November 10, 1932 – February 23, 2026
Shirley Ann Bales, a loving, generous, and spirited woman, passed away on February 23, 2026. Born on November 10, 1932, in Indianapolis to Leonard Jr. and Esther Allmeroth, Shirley was known for her supportive nature and zest for life.
Shirley dedicated 24 years of her life to the Indianapolis Star News and spent 10 years serving as an insurance administrator for Methodist Health Systems. She also worked with Dr. Glen Leer, DO, for 11 years. Despite her busy career, Shirley always found time for her passions. She loved to watch sports, especially football, and enjoyed sewing, drawing, painting, and crafting. She always hosted Christmas, her favorite time of year, and loved having fun and entertaining. A lover of music and dance, she often danced with her husband, bringing joy and laughter to all those around her.
Shirley was a devout member of the Cicero Christian Church for nearly 40 years, where she sang in the choir and led grief share. She was also a generous supporter of the All Peoples Church. She is survived by her children Sharon (Bill) McClish, Kathryn “Kathy” (Danny) Hinds, Janet “Jan” (Steve) Ritchey, and Richard (Sue) Bales. Shirley was a proud grandmother to Carrie Ann (Chad) Miller, Cassandra Bales, Derron (Tracey) Bales, Kevin (Darla) Myers, Lora Keller, Michelle Cragan, Nickole Sprong, Stacey (Ben) Fowler, and Suzanne Marrero (Mike Bertsch); 14 great-grandchildren; and 10 great-great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband Aaron Bales; parents, Leonard and Esther Bales; and her beloved sister, Donna Alger.
Visitation for Shirley will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, February 27, 2026, at the Cicero Christian Church, 1715 Stringtown Pike, Cicero. The funeral service will follow at 11 a.m. with Pastor Smiley officiating. Services are under the direction of Hartley-Dunnichay Funeral Homes – Cicero.
In memory of Shirley, donations may be made to the Cicero Christian Church or All Peoples Church at allpeoplestijuana.churchcenter.com/giving/to/missions-guzman-salomon-and-megan.
Please feel free to leave memories and upload photos to Shirley’s memorial page to celebrate her life.
Condolences: hartleyfuneralhomes.com