Shirley J. Tonar's Obituary
TONAR, Shirley J., age 94, of Bellbrook, passed away on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at Otterbein Senior Life in Springboro.
Shirley was a graduate of Meadowdale High School and carried herself throughout life with grace, confidence, and class. Shirley dedicated a remarkable working life to careers she genuinely loved. She retired after 50 years with Dayco Products, where she served as a product analyst, and 35 years with Macy’s, where she worked as a fine jeweler. During her time with Macy’s, Shirley was once recognized as the oldest employee in the Macy’s Corporation, a distinction she wore with pride. She was known not only for her expertise in fine jewelry but also for her philosophy of service, never selling but helping others find joy in something meaningful. Her warmth and sincerity created lasting relationships with repeat customers who returned to see Shirley time and again.
Family was always at the center of Shirley’s world. She dearly loved spending time with her grandchildren and took great joy in attending their activities and celebrating their accomplishments. Known affectionately as the “grandmother to all the neighborhood kids,” Shirley was robust, caring, outgoing, and deeply family-oriented. Evenings were often spent enjoying movies and television with her daughter, Susan, always accompanied by popcorn and laughter. Among her many interests, Shirley had a special love of music and entertainment. She was an avid admirer of Barbra Streisand and Céline Dion and treasured the memories of seeing them both perform in concert. She also held a special place in her heart for her grand dog, Max.
The family especially wanted to thank the caregivers at Otterbein for their dedication and service to Shirley and the family, and for the outstanding care and compassion provided by caregiver Roz Rebosky and past caregiver Roxan Watson, which was greatly appreciated.
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Everett and Dorothy Espy, and her two brothers, Everett and Melvin. She is survived by her daughter, Susan (John) Kesler; her two grandchildren, Lauren (Stephen Brigaitis) Kesler and Alexander Kesler (Linda Prater); and her cousin, Joan Trame.
A graveside service will be held at 2 pm on Friday, March 6, 2026, at Centerville Cemetery. If desired, contributions may be made to Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton or Otterbein Senior Life of Springboro. Conner & Koch Funeral Home in Bellbrook is serving the family. Condolences may be shared with the family at https://www.connerandkoch.com.
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