Shirley Jean Werling

Shirley Jean Werling, age 84 of Louisville, Kentucky passed way Monday, July 13, 2026 leaving behind a legacy of unwavering faith, selfless service, and love for her family, church, and community. Shirley was born on October 27, 1941 in Evansville, Indiana to the late Joseph Buedel and Ola Chamberlain Buedel.

Shirley's life was a beautiful reflection of Christ's love through service to others. She faithfully devoted countless hours to her church, joyfully helping with Vacation Bible School and the "Jesus and Me" children's programs. She lovingly prepared meals in the church kitchen, using her gift of hospitality to bless those around her. For more than 30 years, Shirley faithfully visited patients in hospitals and residents in nursing homes, bringing comfort, encouragement, prayer, and compassion to those who needed it most. Her gentle spirit and caring heart touched the lives of countless individuals and families. She was also an active and dedicated member of the Sojourners Sunday School Class, serving in a variety of roles through the years. Whether teaching, organizing, encouraging, or simply offering a listening ear, Shirley's faithfulness strengthened her church family and inspired others to serve. Shirley will be remembered for her servant's heart, steadfast faith, warm smile, and the kindness she extended to everyone she met. Her life was a testimony that true greatness is found in serving others. Though she will be deeply missed, her family and friends find comfort in knowing that she has entered into the presence of her Lord and Savior, whom she served so faithfully throughout her life. Her legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering faith will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Joe and Ola Buedel, and her cherished brother, Joey Buedel. 

Shirley leaves to cherish her memory her beloved husband of 63 years, Walter Leo Werling; daughters, Michelle Wilson (Danny Ray) and Beth Veihl (Jim); grandchildren, Chris Wood (Carley), Danielle Abel (Matt), Micah Veihl (Kayla) and Elijah Veihl; great-grandchildren, Iris and Everett; and a host of relatives and friends.

Visitation will be from 11am to 1pm on Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at Chapel in the Woods, 1407 Moser Road, Louisville, Kentucky 40299. A celebration of Shirley's life will be there at 1pm on Tuesday, with burial to follow in Cave Hill Cemetery.

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