Shirley Ann Hochstetler

Shirley Ann Hochstetler, a steadfast beacon of faith and family, passed away on June 8, 2026, at Browns County Health and Living. Born in the quiet town of Westport, Indiana, Shirley’s life was a vivid tapestry woven with devotion, resilience, and an unyielding spirit.

A 1952 graduate of Hayden High School, Shirley embraced life with a spunky vigor and a strong-willed independence that touched all who knew her. Among her many passions, she cherished riding motorcycles alongside her beloved husband Albert, especially on thrilling journeys to the Rocky Smoky Mountains. Camping under wide-open skies and her deep love for dogs brought her endless joy and solace.

For over 56 years, Shirley was a vital part of Calvary Baptist Church, serving faithfully as church secretary for more than 36 years. Her commitment to her church was a testament to her unwavering Christian faith. Those who knew her witnessed a woman whose heart was entirely dedicated to her Lord Jesus, her church family, and her own cherished family—the center of her world.

Her beloved family included Albert Hochstetler of Seymour, Indiana, her devoted husband of 65 years, who shared her journeys through life’s joys and hardships. Shirley’s brother, Terry Bishop, and his wife Emma, residents of North Vernon, Indiana, two grandchildren, Courtney Clouse and Kelsey Deaton; three great-grandchildren, Brooklynde Graphman and her husband Ethan, Isaiah Harris, and Jase Harris; and the joy of a great-great-grandchild soon to arrive. Jason Davis of Crothersville, Indiana, and Rhonda Burden of Seymour, Indiana, her son- and daughter-in-law, whose lives were touched deeply by her presence.

Shirley’s life was touched by those who preceded her in death—her parents Charles Bishop and Evelyn Perry Bishop, her son Charles R. Burden, daughter Janet Davis, brothers Bud Bishop and Jack Perry, and grandson James J. Deaton. Their memories endure as lasting parts of the story Shirley lived with such heartfelt devotion.

Family will receive friends on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at Christensen Family Funeral Home, located at 311 Holiday Square Road in Seymour, Indiana from 11:00 AM until 12:00 PM. Funeral services will begin at 12:00 PM at the funeral home. These moments will honor a woman who embodied strength and grace, who faced life with fervor and a loving heart. She will be laid to rest at Hayden Cemetery immediately following services.

Shirley Ann Hochstetler leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, and fierce independence. Her spirit echoes in the mountains she rode, the campfires she lit, and the countless hearts she touched. She rests now, her journey complete, carried in the arms of the Lord she loved so dearly.

The family requests memorials to be directed to Calvary Baptist Church.

Daniel and Betsy Christensen have been entrusted with the arrangements.