Shirley Ann (Apgar) Homler passed away on March 6, 2026, in Franklin, Tennessee, at the age of 90. She was born on July 7, 1935, in Phillipsburg, New Jersey. Shirley’s life was characterized by her dedication to family, friends, and service.

Shirley grew up in the rural community of West Portal, New Jersey. She learned to play the piano and organ, and she became the organist of the West Portal Methodist Church when she was just 12 years old. She was a member of the National Honor Society of North Hunterdon Regional High School from which she graduated in 1953.

She married the love of her life, Gene Homler, on September 29, 1956. They resided in Plainfield, New Jersey, before settling in North Plainfield to raise their family. Later, they moved to Piscataway.

While living in New Jersey, Shirley worked as a secretary at Wigton-Abbott Corporation, an engineering firm. She stopped working to raise her children. Later, she worked for Heinzer Engineering, a company that was started by a long-time friend and neighbor. She was a member of The Order of the Eastern Star for more than 60 years holding the office of Worthy Matron from 1969 to 1970. She also served as president of the PTA for the elementary school her children attended.

In 2001, Shirley moved to Tennessee to be closer to her daughter and grandchildren. When she wasn’t helping with her grandchildren or attending their various activities, she worked at her community clubhouse greeting members early in the morning. She served on her HOA board as a member and then as treasurer for many years, positions she thoroughly enjoyed. She was a member of Bethlehem United Methodist Church where she regularly attended services and Sunday School. She participated in a bible study group, and she volunteered to sell tickets for the church’s annual fish fry. She also became a staple in the church office as a weekly volunteer.

Shirley cherished time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom she recently described as “the joys of her life.” She enjoyed watching baseball on TV, especially the New York Yankees. She also cheered on the New York Jets and Giants. She became a fan of the Tennessee Titans and when her grandson attended the University of Kentucky, she became a Wildcat basketball fan. She loved listening to the music of The Statler Brothers.

Shirley had many wonderful, devoted friends who provided her with much love, care, and support. She especially enjoyed Sunday meals after church with her “lunch bunch.”

Shirley is survived by her daughter, Carole (Michael) Harry; her brother, Dale (Pattie) Apgar, and her sister-in-law, Alice Homler. She took great pride in her grandchildren: Jenni (Drew) Logsdon, Taylor (Cristen) Harry, and Matthew (Becca) Harry. She was blessed to have five great-grandchildren: Wyatt and Hadley Logsdon; Hudson, Callen, and Carson Harry. She is also survived by several beloved nieces and nephews.

Shirley was predeceased by her father, Willis Apgar; her mother, Hazel (Langenbach) Apgar; her husband of 42 years, Gene Homler; her son, Richard Homler; and her grandson, Christopher Harry.

Memorial gifts may be directed to Bethlehem United Methodist Church, 2419 Bethlehem Loop Rd, Franklin, TN 37069.

Her family wishes to give thanks to the staff at NHC Place Cool Springs who provided care for her and support for her family over the past seven months.