Addie B. Shurn

Addie B. Shurn was called home to the Lord Jesus Christ on December 21, 2021, at the age 108. Addie was born to the late Jim Walker and Ida Harris on October 15, 1913, in Clarksdale, Mississippi. She was one of eight children. Addie moved to Parkin, Arkansas at a very young age and met and wed her husband, Eles Otto Shurn, in 1931. Their union produced 10 children. In 1943, the family moved from Arkansas to South Bend, Indiana.

Addie was a lifelong member of Greater St. John Missionary Baptist Church and a true servant of the Lord. She was a devoted and longstanding member of the Missionary Circle and Sunday School auxiliaries for 60 and 70 years, respectfully. She wholeheartedly believed “Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” James 2:17. She prided herself on being active in the church as well as in her community. In 2019, she was awarded a key to the city of South Bend for her longevity and the joy she brought to the city. 

Addie was a domestic worker for most of her career and lovingly fostered several families and their children until her retirement. She also worked briefly with the State of Indiana Children’s Hospital.  Addie was a huge advocate of family togetherness and never missed a Shurn family reunion in 66 years! Her life was a living testimony of faith and family.  Her grand, decorative hats, listening ear, wise advice, and sincere love of the Lord will be missed by many. 

Addie is preceded in death by her husband Eles Otto Shurn and siblings Alder Lee Walker, Sarah Walker, Roosevelt Walker, Johnny Walker Sr., Tommie L. Walker Sr., Lillie Walker, and Henry Alton Walker. Predeceased children are Bertha Mae Shurn Carter, Margie Ruth Shurn Johnson, and Cleofus (Lee) Shurn. Sadly, Addie lost her eldest son, Eles Otto Shurn Jr., two days after her passing. 

Her surviving children are Fred D. Shurn (Louellen Thompson Shurn) of Maywood, IL, Marsha Faye Shepard (the late Clinton Shepard) of Huntersville, NC, Arthur R. Shurn (Mary Morrow Shurn) of Holyoke, MA, Charlie J. Shurn of South Bend, IN, Archie Shurn (Joyce King Shurn) of South Bend, IN, and Armentroal Morris of Oak Park, MI. Addie leaves behind 134 grand and great grandchildren. She has countless nieces, nephews, and others who loved and admired her including her oldest niece, Clora Mae Baker of Chicago, IL.

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