Shirley A. Folkerts

Shirley A. Folkerts

October 30, 1944 – December 1, 2023

On December 1, 2023, Shirley A. Folkerts, loving mother and grandmother, entered heaven for eternity.  Shirley was born in Decatur, Illinois, on October 30, 1944.  She is predeceased by her father, Karl H. Blankenburg, her mother, Hazel B. Blankenburg, and her beloved husband, Ralph C. Folkerts.

Shirley’s brother, Jim Blankenburg introduced her to his college fraternity brother, Ralph. They were married on October 31, 1964.  

Shirley was a lifelong administrative assistant, working in numerous roles including Gailey Eye Clinic, Ralph’s State Farm Insurance office, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, and multiple congregations that she worshiped in, including occasional assistance at her current congregation.

Following retirement, Shirley and Ralph moved to Georgia to be near their daughter and her family. They both treasured family meals every weekend and the celebration of birthdays and holidays as a family.

Shirley thoroughly loved learning about her Lord and was active in various Bible study communities. Her family and friends treasured her wisdom, kindness, and compassion. She also enjoyed card games and made innumerable friends playing bridge socially and in duplicate bridge centers.

Family left behind are daughter Judy Ambrose (Rob); son Jim Folkerts; four precious grandchildren: Gabrielle Belcher (Joseph), Mackenzie Ambrose, Addison Ambrose, and Caden Ambrose; great grandson Benjamin Belcher; and brother Jim Blankenburg.

A memorial service will be held at Christ the Shepherd Lutheran Church, 4655 Webb Bridge Road, Alpharetta, Georgia, on January 6, 2024 at 11 AM. Visitation will take place one hour before the service.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Christ the Shepherd Lutheran Church.