Shirley Anne Baum Rubinstein, born July 29, 1936, in Johnstown, Pennsylvania peacefully passed away surrounded by her loving family on early Saturday, June 8, 2024. Shirley's journey began as she entered this world during the historic 1936 Johnstown Flood. She was born to the late beloved Lena (Pinsker) and Harry Baum.

Shirley's legacy is etched in the hearts of her dear ones, including her devoted children, Jodi (Steven) Zimelman of Los Angeles, CA and Jeff (Andrea) Rubinstein of Columbus, OH. She also is survived by her one and only beloved sister, Deverah (DD) Baum Routman of Baltimore, MD. Shirley's affectionate spirit extended to her cherished grandchildren, Carli and Taylor Zimelman and Lexi and Micah Rubinstein. They were the love of her life and she would drop everything just to be present in their lives. Shirley also had so much love for her nieces and nephew and families, Tammy (Fred) Heyman and Mindy (Scott) Markovitz, as well as Todd Rubinstein and Toni Gill in California.

Shirley's life was a testament to selflessness and compassion. Her nurturing presence and unwavering devotion endeared her to all who crossed her path. Shirley's commitment to education was evident as she embarked on a fulfilling career. She graduated in 1954 from Westmont High School in Johnstown and attended all of her treasured reunions up until the last in 2019, which was number 65. She loved those reunions and stayed close with her two high school friends her entire life, Lois (Gillen) McCarthy and the late Arlene (Ober) Phost. She then earned a degree in English and Teaching from the University of Pittsburgh.

Shirley began her teaching career in Pittsburgh at Munhall High School. Her enthusiasm for teaching touched countless lives, as she continued her career by moving to Canton in 1963. She taught at Taft, Timken and Lehman High Schools, where she passionately taught braille typing classes to blind students. She then landed her dream job at Stark State College teaching English, Typing, and Business Administration Courses. She loved all her colleagues that she met there and made lifetime friendships, including the late Betty Morford and Anita Hart. She retired in 1999 after 23 years.

Shirley's family, friends, as well as her Synagogue were the priority of her life. She became active in Shaaray Torah Synagogue in Sisterhood, and teaching Sunday school until 2012. After retirement, her life was fully dedicated to her family and making every event for her four grandchildren both in California and Ohio. Frequent pastimes with her loving sister, Deverah were another favorite of hers, especially their trip to Israel in 1991.

Shirley's zest for life was genuine in her vibrant friendships and cherished memories. She treasured the camaraderie of her lifelong friends Doree Hafner, Becky Zoldan, the late Barbara Mogul, June Henderson, Becky Kocsis, Susie Lewyn, and Barbara Morgan. Shirley's compassion extended beyond her immediate circle, touching the hearts of all who knew her.

Shirley's family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Tom Armbrust, Angie Porter, Kathy and Maya Bigalow, and certainly the compassionate staff at Creekside and The Cottage, in Columbus, OH for their unwavering support and care over the years.

In honor of Shirley's memory, funeral services will be held on Monday at 1:30 p.m. at Shaaray Torah Synagogue, 432 30th St NW, Canton OH followed by interment at the Canton Hebrew Cemetery. Donations in Shirley's name may be made to the Wexner Heritage Village – Zusman Hospice Greatest Need Fund. https://www.gifttool.com/donations/Donate?ID=1628&AID=1163

Shirley's legacy of love, kindness, and compassion will forever illuminate the lives of those she touched. Though she may be physically absent, her spirit will continue to guide and inspire all who were privileged to know her. May her memory be for a blessing.

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