On November 28, 2013, Audrey Jean (Shaffer) Blackburn began the greatest adventure of her life
by going home to her Lord and Savior after demonstrating that neither age or physical limitations
restrict our ability to impact another’s life.Little did Audrey know when she was born on October 1,
1936 in McGuffy, Ohio to Floyd and Burnadean Wilson of Mount Blanchard, that she would touch so many
lives throughout her stay on earth. Although considered an "ordinary person" by the world’s
standards, Audrey managed to remind us that even "ordinary" has ability to do the
"extraordinary" if one is sensitive to the needs of others.Her gentle and kind spirit, as well
as her ability to demonstrate unconditional love, was exemplified throughout her marriages and in
raising her three daughters: Belinda (George, deceased) Savage, Bethany Shaffer (deceased) and Eunice
(Randy) Wickard. In addition to teaching her daughters independent living skills that they would need as
adults, they also learned what a strong work ethic looked like as Audrey modeled this for them
throughout their years at home.What made a lasting impression on her daughters is the life lesson Audrey
taught by example: do the right thing no matter how difficult or uncomfortable it is.The most important
legacy Audrey leaves behind is how her daughters were shaped by her teaching and positive influences
that helped develop within them a deep love and appreciation for an intimate relationship with their
Savior, Jesus Christ.Audrey also had three grandchildren whom she loved and enjoyed: Toni Savage of
Lawrence, Kansas, Jeremy Collier (decreased) and Michael Wickard of Jenera, Ohio.Audrey was highly
regarded in the academic and business fields in which she worked throughout her career as an
Administrative Assistant. While she maintained professionalism, she also interacted with others in a way
that made them feel valued and respected.Despite the challenges that Audrey encountered throughout the
last six years, she always maintained a positive attitude. This was attributed to her ability to find
enjoyment and appreciation in "the little things in life." She conveyed her appreciation for
such things by conversation, interaction with others, and journal entries. Audrey attributed her
"attitude of gratitude" to her faith and personal relationship with her Savior. "God is
Good" was her daily mantra.We will be forever grateful for this final life lesson that Audrey had
the opportunity to impart before she was called home.There will be a Celebration of Life on Friday,
December 6 at COLDREN-CRATES FUNERAL HOME, Findlay. Visitation will be at 10 a.m. followed by an 11 a.m.
service officiated by Pastor Craig Cramer.Memorial contributions can be made to: In Touch Ministries,
P.O. Box 7900, Atlanta, Georgia 30357 or to the Hancock County Humane Society at 4550 Fostoria Avenue,
Findlay, Ohio 45840.Online condolences may be made at www.coldrencrates.com.To
send flowers click here!