Shirley E Bombenger

Shirley E Bombenger, 85, peacefully returned to the arms of her Lord and Savior on March 8th, 2026 at Lexington Manor where she was loved and cared for by their amazing team.

Born Shirley Eleanor Posson on May 18, 1940, in Chicago, IL she was raised by Adriana Posson as a single mother (ahead of her time) due to her father John Posson passing early in her life. Her sister and best friend, Jane, made the most of it.  They grew up with each other and spoke nearly every day their whole lives, up until Shirleys last few days.

Shirley met her husband Rich Bombenger in high school and the two of them spent over 50 years married before Rich departed to be with the Lord in 2012.  Rich was Shirley’s adventure. Their bond was inspiring, and Jesus is the reason they lasted. Jesus was their foundation, through the good, the bad and the ugly, they would pray for anyone in need, anytime, anywhere.

Shirley was the heart and soul of her family, embodying kindness, warmth, and energy in all her endeavors. Her home was always open and welcoming — the center of family gatherings, holidays, and casual evenings. Shirley was one of a kind.  She was a loving, genuine, and overall incredible woman; the kind of person everyone enjoyed being around.  Her love for God shined through all and everything she did, allowing her to touch countless lives and pray over thousands. Sharing her faith, Shirley was never preachy or condescending to anyone and was the embodiment of love depicted in 1 Corinthians 13:4-8. She touched lives by being real and sharing her message, “it’s never wrong to do the right thing.”

She found immense joy in preparing delightful meals, listening to music, teaching, and worshiping the lord.  Above all, Shirley treasured her family and the many moments they shared together. The warmth of her love was only matched by her fierce loyalty to those lucky to be in her orbit. She truly made a difference in the world. Her spirit will live on in all the people she has touched, like a handprint on our hearts.

She is survived by her sons, Chad Bombenger and Wade Bombenger; sister, Jane Siwinski, Sister-In-Law, Geri Mantherny, Daughter-In-Law, Robyn Swearnigen, grand-children, Alexa Tippins, Richard Tippins III, Clayton Bombenger, Carson Bombenger, Adrianna Bombenger and Beau Bombenger; and great-grandchildren, Brayden Tippins and Payton Tippins.

Her Service will be held on Saturday April 11th, 2026 at 3 PM, located at Deep Creek Community Church - 1500 Cooper St, Punta Gorda, FL 33950, followed by a private family gathering.

Below is a verse Shirley read each morning to begin her day:

Psalm 23

The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings. Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.

Shirley was driven to help people and showed up for women’s groups, prayer groups, bible studies, volunteering, helping people pass the GED, donating to countless non-profits, giving a smile, offering a hug…offering prayer…If Shirley could relay a message today, she would want you to know that Jesus loves you.

If you need prayer without judgement, call the prayer line at Daystar 1-800-329-0029.