Shirley Gossett

GOSSETT, Shirley went to be with his Lord on November 13, 2014. He is survived by his wife, Ruth M. Gossett; daughters Marianna Gossett, Candy Pomeroy and husband, Eric; grandsons, Kyle Mullins and Tristan Pomeroy and granddaughter, Madelyn Pomeroy. Shirley graduated from Parker Vocational High School in 1941 and was on the Reunion Committee for 40 years. He served in the U.S. Army 325 Glider Infantry of the 82nd Airborne Division in Holland, Belgium, and Germany as a Scout & Runner in WWII. Shirley earned many ribbons including the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. He retired as a sheet metal worker from Local #224 after 40 years. He formed their Retirement Club in 19856 and served as their President for four terms. In 1970, Shirley formed the Dayton Chapter of the 82nd Airborne Division Association, which was later renamed after General Matthew B. Ridgway. He served on the Board of Directors of the 82nd Airborne Association as Secretary, Assistant Executive Director, Executive Director and was elected as National President in 1981 and 1986. In 1990, Shirley received their highest award, "All-American of the Year." He was certainly the most active veteran in this association, holding raffles, selling VCR tapes and books will all profits going to their Educational Fund. In 2000, 82nd Airborne Commander, MG Dan McNeil presented Shirley with the "Commander's Award," an award given to a civilian for his dedication to the Division. Shirley became an active Baptist in 2001 and served the Lord henceforth. He enjoyed his life helping others and making people laugh. Funeral services will be held at 1:30 pm, Wednesday, November 19 at the Morton & Whetstone Funeral Home, 139 S. Dixie Dr., Vandalia with Pastor Dennis Phillips officiating. Interment with military honors will follow at Forest Hills Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 11:00 am until time of service.