Shirley M. Docken

DOCKEN, Shirley M., age 90, of Beavercreek, OH, passed away on Wednesday, March 5, 2025. Shirley was born on January 7, 1935, to the late Charles and Jane Gill, in Columbus, OH. She grew up in the Columbus area before meeting her future husband Richard Docken. After they married, they relocated to the Dayton area where Richard worked at WPAFB. She was a long-time member of Concordia Lutheran and Peace Lutheran churches. Throughout her life, Shirley was an avid tennis fan and player, and could often be found on the court every morning. In their retirement years, Richard and Shirley loved spending their winters in Florida, residing in Palm Harbor, FL for many years. She also volunteered at the National Museum of the United States Air Force helping with Story Time and Restoration tours. Her passionate and energetic spirit will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

She was preceded in death by her parents; beloved husband of 54 years, Richard Docken; sister, Phyllis (Dave) Lumpkin; and daughter, Elizabeth Docken.

Shirley is survived by her children, Richard (Michele) Jr., Charles (Michelle) and John (Darla) Docken; grandchildren, Mark (Samantha) Docken, Nathan (Kelsey) Docken, Grace Docken, and Marie Docken; great-grandchildren, Neyelli, Mark, and Iliana Docken; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other extended family.

A private family memorial will be held at a later date. Inurnment will be at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Columbus, OH. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Ohio Living Hospice at www.ohioliving.org and the Air Force Museum Foundation at www.airforcemuseumfoundation.org.