Longtime Volunteer Shirley Meeker Named Senior Citizen of the Year

​Bellefontaine, OH – On Tuesday, over 100 local senior citizens, friends, family members, and senior resource agencies gathered at the Friendly Senior Center to celebrate Shirley Meeker, who was honored as this year’s Senior Citizen of the Year.

​Shirley Meeker is a familiar face in Logan County, known for her extensive volunteer work and tireless dedication to the community. Mary Jo Altstaetter, who nominated Meeker, summed it up perfectly: “Meeker’s thousands of hours of volunteer work throughout Logan County are only part of what makes her so deserving of this recognition.”

A Lifetime of Service
Meeker’s journey of service began early, growing up as the eldest of eleven siblings. She learned the importance of caring for others and developed her cooking skills, which she later used to benefit many in the community. Her professional life included significant roles at Tinsley’s IGA and the Bellefontaine City Schools food service department.

Her volunteer efforts kicked into high gear in the 1990s when she became a volunteer cook for the Loving Hands Day Care Center. She also led a church group that provided meals bi-monthly for Our Daily Bread. Shirley planned menus, bought food, cooked meals, and managed volunteers. Even as Lutheran Community Services expanded, Shirley’s leadership remained unwavering.

Kim Collum, Executive Director of Lutheran Community Services, praised Shirley’s dedication and pointed out that she’s been a steady hand through various community projects.

Heartfelt Contributions
Shirley’s volunteering isn’t limited to just one area. She’s been involved with the American Red Cross Bloodmobile, preparing meals for staff and volunteers, and has donated over 16 gallons of blood herself! At St. Patrick Church’s St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry, she helps wherever needed, volunteering weekly and assisting with Project Merry Christmas.

Celebrating her 40th year with the Nu Beta Sorority this year, Shirley contributes to events like Breakfast with Santa and monthly bingo at Logan Acres Care Center. Her culinary skills are legendary, especially the Thanksgiving feasts she prepared for her husband’s coworkers and the Mercy meals served at St. Patrick Church funerals.

A True Community Hero
Shirley’s commitment goes beyond just being a part of groups. She’s hands-on, whether sorting clothing donations after a tornado or delivering meals to those in need. Sue Vicario, a community member, exclaimed, “Wow! She is truly an unsung hero of our community!” upon learning of Shirley’s extensive volunteer work.

Celebration and Gratitude
The award ceremony, hosted by the Logan County Senior Service Coalition and led by Christie Barnes, featured a delicious meal catered by Where There’s Smoke BBQ from West Mansfield. Several area resource agencies participated in a senior resource fair, providing valuable information and resources.

Shirley, ever humble, expressed her gratitude and faith-driven motivation: “That’s what God wants me to do!” She encourages others to get involved and make a difference in the community.

Shirley Meeker’s legacy of service, kindness, and dedication to Logan County is an inspiration to us all. Congratulations, Shirley, on being named the 2024 Outstanding Senior Citizen of Logan County!