Dr. James William Shira, “Jim”, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday July 18, 2025 at the Chambersburg Hospital.  At age 92, he was days away from his 93rd birthday on July 24, 2025.  His gentle, loving spirit and kind soul will be greatly missed by many.

Born in New Castle PA, Jim was the son of the late Anna (Artz) and Martin Shira.  He was preceded in death by his wife Joanne (Kirkpatrick) Shira, older brother Martin Shira, and brother-in-law Robert Huston Sr.  He is survived by his daughters Stephanie (Jim) Metz and Chris (Mike) Schellhase; grandchildren Amanda Metz, Nicholas Metz (Megan), Zachary Schellhase (Trey Fossum), Luke Schellhase; great-grandchildren Zoe Hoover, Noah Schellhase, Naomi Schellhase, Liam Schellhase and Charli Schellhase.  He was also loved greatly by his fur-baby, grand-dog Tuck.  He is also survived by his sister Patricia Huston and younger brother Charles (Ann), and sister-in-law Claudine Shira. 

Jim was a graduate of New Castle High School and Geneva College in Beaver Falls PA.  Jim went on to earn a dental degree from the University of Pittsburgh.  He enlisted in the United States Navy as an Ensign and was later commissioned as a dentist with the Fleet Aircraft Squadron 104 in Rota, Spain.  After retiring from the Navy, he graduated from the University of Pennsylvania earning a degree in orthodontics.  Dr. Shira opened his orthodontic practice in 1961 and retired in 1990. 

While attending dental school in Pittsburgh, Jim traveled to Scotland, PA with classmate Joe Kirkpatrick.  It was at Joe’s house that Jim met his future wife Joanne Kirkpatrick. They married in 1956 and were happily married for 65 years. 

After his retirement, Jim spent much of his time gardening, exercising and caring for his family.  He kept in great shape by walking Stephanie’s beloved golden retrievers and his daily lap swims at the Chambersburg YMCA. He was a member of the local AARP chapter where he enjoyed socializing and singing with friends. 

Jim lovingly cared for his wife Joanne at home until she went to live at Menno Haven Memory Care Home in Chambersburg PA in March 2020.  In November 2020, Jim was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease and lived with his daughter Stephanie and her husband Jim Metz for 15 months.  Joanne passed away in October 2021.  Later, Jim went to live at Menno Haven Village Square, assisted living facility.  He resided there until the time of his death.  

While at Village Square, Jim was thriving.  He spent his days walking with his loyal caregiver, Bonnie Myers, exercising in the gym and taking aquatic classes.  In February of this year, Jim started to attend a boxing class that Menno Haven offered for residents with Parkinson’s Disease, MS and Alzheimer’s.  It gave him great joy spending time with the friends he made there, especially  with Stuart, who gave great encouragement to all while leading each session. He lived a very active lifestyle and received such loving care from all of the staff at Menno Haven Village Square.  He made many lasting friendships, especially his dining companions: Barb, Mary, Wendell, Peg and Joanna.  He loved socializing and bringing a smile to all he encountered.    

During his life, Jim remained constant in his Christian faith and love of the Lord Jesus Christ.  He attended Greenwood Hills Gospel Chapel and later in his life King Street United Brethren Church.  Even during his brief stay at the hospital he stated, “The Lord has been good!” to every staff member who cared for him.  He was quick to give all the praise for his long life to God.

Services will be private at the convenience of the family.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in honor of Jim Shira may be made to: Menno Haven Development Services, ATTN: Village Square Fund; 300 Ridgeview, Chambersburg PA 17201.