Nora Jane Shanks

Nora Jane Shanks, aged 96, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on Saturday, June 8, 2024. Born on February 6, 1928, in Dayton, OH, Nora Jane lived a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments.

In 1946, Nora Jane married her beloved late husband, Harold D. Shanks, marking the beginning of a beautiful journey together. Nora Jane was a devoted wife, mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, touching the lives of all who knew her.

Nora Jane is preceded in death by her parents Ernest and Grace Mason, husband Harold D. Shanks, brothers Wendell, Donald and sisters Bertha, Phyllis, and Barbara, and children Kenneth and Dale.

Nora Jane is survived by sister Betty, son Thomas Shanks, daughters Raenell (William) and Susan Stidham (Timothy), grandchildren Jason Nichols, Amber Miller, Allison Robertson (Chris), Jeff Frazier (Emily), Rachel Dillon, Megan Smerk (Anthony) and Cody Dillon (Savannah), great-grandchildren Lindsey Miller, Leah Frazier, Colton Robertson, Luke Robertson, Oscar Miller, Jack Robertson, Kayla Dillon, Riley Dillon, Scout Dillon and Tommy Frazier, daughter-in-law Kris Frazier, great-grand-dog Sophia Grace and Mia.

After graduating from Bethel Local in 1946, Nora Jane dedicated herself to her community. She worked tirelessly in food service at Bethel Local Schools, nourishing not only bodies but also hearts with her kindness.

As a member of the Brandt Methodist Church, Nora Jane shared her faith as a Sunday School Teacher, leaving a lasting impact on generations of learners.

Nora Jane found joy in simple pleasures, from spending time with loved ones to indulging in her passions for cooking, baking, and tending to her garden. She relished in the beauty of nature, cherished storytelling, and found solace in the tranquility of the beach.

Her warm and compassionate nature, coupled with her witty sense of humor, made Nora Jane a beloved figure in the lives of many. She possessed a rare combination of traits—loving, empathetic, genuine, and gentle nature—that left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

In her memory, let us celebrate the life of Nora Jane Shanks—a woman whose grace, passion, and pure heart illuminated the world around her. Though she may be gone, her legacy of love and kindness will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to call her friend, family, or simply, Nora Jane.

The graveside service will held at Glen Haven Cemetery at 2:00 pm on Thursday, June 13, 2024. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Miami County Hospice. Expressions of sympathy may be made at trostelchapman.com