Shirley C. Spangler-Wriedt

Shirley Carol Spangler-Wriedt of Grand Rapids, Michigan, passed away peacefully at home Thursday, August 14, 2025, at her home, surrounded by the love of family and dear friends. Shirley’s life was a symphony of grace, faith, and music. She carried the spirit of joy and generosity throughout her 90 years. Whether seated at the organ bench or gathered with loved ones, her melodies lifted hearts, her faith anchored communities.

Born on Christmas Day, December 25, 1934, in Wadsworth, Ohio, Shirley was the cherished daughter of Virgil and Ethel Burdett. She graduated with the Class of 1952 from John R Buchtel high school, and went on to earn a Bachelor of Music in Church Music from Wheaton College in 1956—a reflection of her lifelong devotion to faith and the arts.

Shirley was first united in marriage to Donald Lee Spangler in the 1950s, and together they raised two sons: Steven Spangler of Redmond, Washington, and Scott Spangler of Tucson, Arizona. In 2008, she was blessed to find love again and married Thomas Frederick Wriedt of Peoria, Illinois, who survives her.

In 1977, Shirley made Grand Rapids her home, where she continued to share her musical gifts with the community. A gifted pipe organist and choir director, she served faithfully in churches throughout her adult life, most recently at Faith Lutheran Church in Grand Rapids. She was an active member of the Western Michigan Chapter of the American Guild of Organists (AGO) and also served as office manager at Luther Village retirement home until her retirement in 2005. In her later years, her life centered around her husband and her cherished church community.

She leaves behind three adored grandchildren: Sean (Leslie) Spangler of Tacoma, Washington; Nicole (Austin) Spangler, of Sammamish, Washington; and David Spangler of Tacoma, Washington. Shirley was preceded in death by her sister, Martha Lou (Stevans) Burdett, and her brother, Richard Lee Burdett.

A memorial service celebrating Shirley’s life and faith will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday September 13, at CrossWay Community Church, 3950 Burton Street SE, Grand Rapids, with her pastor, Rev. Bob Manuel, officiating. A private interment for family will follow the service.

In honor of Shirley’s legacy, memorial contributions may be made to the Conservatory of Music at Wheaton College (Illinois), or to CrossWay Community Church in Grand Rapids.

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