Shirley V. Petras, 91, of Steubenville, Ohio entered into the presence of the Lord on Wednesday, April 16, 2025. She was born on July 1, 1933 in Steubenville, Ohio the daughter of the late William Wyatt & Helen Alexander Whanger. Shirley was Christian by faith. She was a dedicated wife and mother to her family, known for a positive personality, enduring faith and unmatched strength.
Shirley graduated from Wintersville High School before going on to pursue her passion for dance. She became a dance instructor at the Arthur Murray Dance Studio where she met the love of her life through their mutual love of dance, the late George D. Petras. They were known to clear a dance floor, showing off their elegant and graceful ballroom dancing.
Shirley is preceded in death by her loving husband, George D. Petras, grandson Cody and brother Bill Whanger. She is survived by her six children, David G. Petras, Cheri Petras, Lisa (David) Good, Valerie Petras, Scott Petras & Brian Petras; eleven grandchildren, Joshua, Melody, Taylor, Shane, Travis, Shannon, Brandon, Landon, Maleena, Emilee & Maverick; two step-grandchildren Kristeen & Mollie; one great-grandchild Maylee and brothers Robert Whanger & Dave (Shirley) Whanger.
A private family service was held at Dunlope-Shorac Funeral Home, 215 Fernwood Road, Wintersville, Ohio.
05/06/2025
Denise Bowman
Val, I'm so very sorry to hear of your Mother's passing. I know from our chats how much you loved each other. Sending love and prayers to you and family.
04/25/2025
William Schaefer
This is Bill Schaefer. I was the senior English teacher at JU. I remember the Petras children as very pleasant young people so I noticed the obituary. I also was pleased to see that your mother was Shirley Whanger who taught dance. I took lessons from her in a group when I was about 12 or 13 (1958 or 59?) There were six of us and we took the lessons at her home which I think was in Sunshine Park. We learned traditional social dances and the jitterbug. I texted with one of the women (girls of course at the time) who was in the group, and she too has warm memories of our lessons. Your mother must have spread many warm memories through her teaching. Just had to share. Hope you all are well. WS
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