Michelle R. “Shelly” Barford

CENTERBURG – Michelle R. “Shelly” Barford, 64, of Centerburg, went home to be with Jesus on Thursday, April 16, 2026. Shelly was an amazing wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend, and she will be missed dearly. She was funny, nurturing, and deeply encouraging. She loved life, loved her family, loved Jesus, and above all lived with a complete dependence on God.

Shelly was born on May 27, 1961. On July 24, 1993, she married the love of her life, Larry Barford. Shelly retired from Kroger after more than 40 years of dedicated work and she was known throughout her career for her kindness and the genuine care she showed to others. For 32 years, she was a devoted member of Centerburg Christian Church, where she poured herself into the lives of children and young people by teaching Sunday school for first through sixth grade as well as serving as a youth leader for seventh through twelfth grade. Through her steady presence, regular classes, and personal encouragement, she became a trusted mentor to many. She also served as music director, thoughtfully choosing music each week to support and reflect the message being shared. Even after becoming ill, Shelly continued to serve faithfully through the church’s prayer chain and phone ministry, reaching out to listen, encourage, pray, and weep alongside those who were hurting. She never hesitated to step in wherever she was needed, and her warmth, humor, and caring spirit made her someone people naturally loved being around.

Shelly is survived by her father: George (Carol) Sauer; mother: Shirley (Bill) Deming; husband: Larry Barford; two children: Ian (Kelly) Barford and Rian (Alex) Gurvis; three grandchildren: Cade Barford, Noah Barford and Hope Gurvis; and five siblings: Steven (Linda Michelli) Sauer, Rebecca (Dave Willer) Benjamin, Theresa Sauer, Mike (Vicki) Sauer, and Scott Sauer. She was preceded in death by her son in law, Alex Gurvis; stepmother, Carol Sauer; and stepfather, Bill Deming.

Celebration of Life service will begin at 1:00 p.m., Friday, May 1, 2026, at Devore-Snyder Funeral Home (637 N. State Route 61, Sunbury, OH 43074) with Pastor Bryan Hetterscheidt officiating. Burial will follow in Eastview Cemetery, Hilliar Twp., Centerburg. Visitation will be 11:00 a.m. until the time of service Friday at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be given to Centerburg Christian Church Benevolent Fund (33 Church Street, Centerburg, OH 43011).

Arrangements are under the direction of LOVE HEITMEYER FUNERAL HOME, Ottawa and online condolences may be expressed at www.loveheitmeyer.com