Tribute

Shirley Ann Williams Ruprecht Card passed away peacefully on September 5, 2025, at the age of 92, with loved ones by her side. Born on January 6, 1933, in Batavia, New York, she was the daughter of William H. Williams and Catherine Ann Williams. Shirley’s life was one of deep love, boundless energy, and endless stories. A graduate of the New York State Teachers’ College. She was an accomplished pianist and also played the violin and guitar. She married Alan J. Ruprecht of Batavia, and together they served for 25 years in the military, raising a family while traveling the world. Though they later divorced while living in Phoenix, Arizona, the memories and experiences they created left a lasting legacy. After retiring from American Express, Shirley married Russell Card of Phoenix, and the two eventually settled in Indianapolis, Indiana. In her later years, Shirley made her home in Madison, Indiana, where she was an active member of Madison Assembly of God. She brought joy and humor to every gathering, known for her storytelling, sharp wit, and a knack for making people laugh. She was always on the go—even in her nineties—and never turned down a good game of Scrabble or a round of Bingo. Shirley loved to write, and carefully crafted poems were her specialty. Shirley is survived by her four children: Kathleen Ann Carmer of Madison, Indiana; Elizabeth Jane Moorhead of Indianapolis, Indiana; Alan J. Ruprecht of Sharpsburg, Maryland; and Charles A. Ruprecht of Phoenix, Arizona. She also leaves behind her beloved brother, Gerald Williams of Batavia, New York, 11 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers: Donald, William II, Robert, and Joseph. Shirley generously donated her body to science and will be cremated. A memorial gathering to celebrate her long, healthy, and spunky life will be held in November. Her legacy of laughter, love, and resilience lives on in the hearts of her family and all who knew her. She will be deeply missed.

Friends & Family