Shirley Ann Backman

Shirley Ann Backman passed away at her home with her family beside her on Saturday, June 4, 2011, at the age of 79. Shirley was born in Lansing, Michigan, on July 27, 1931, the daughter of Chester A. and Neva Mae (Steward) Rust. She graduated from Praire Bible College in Three Hills, Alberta, Canada, with her B.A. degree. For over thirty years she did missionary work with her husband, the Reverend Samuel M. Backman, in the Amazon region of Brazil. When they returned to the United States, she served as the church secretary at the First Baptist Church of Northville, until she retired in 2001. Her husband preceded her in death in 1997. She is survived by her three children, Cathy Shamie, David (Carrie) and Paul Backman; and five grandchildren, Heather (Joe) Greeenfield, Jesse (Michelle) Backman, Lucas (Emily) Backman, Jessica and Samantha Shamie. Great grandmother of Titus Backman. Sister of Mae Noe and the late Milton and Donald Rust.

Visitation Tuesday, June 7, 2011, 1pm until 9pm at the Schrader-Howell Funeral Home, 280 South Main Street, Plymouth. Visitation will continue on Wednesday from 10am until time of funeral service at 11 am at the First Baptist Church of Northville, 217 Wing Street, Northville.