Shirley J. Schnizer (nee Usher)

Shirley Jean Usher Schnizer, 90, of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2025, at The Anderson Nursing Center.

 Born on July 6, 1935, in Cincinnati, Shirley was the daughter of the late Theron and Vivian Usher. She was preceded in death by her brother, Theron Usher Jr., and is survived by her sister, Vivian Ripley, and sister-in-law, Carol Usher. She cherished her extended family, including her nieces and nephews: Chris Usher, Julie Meyers, Betsy Gmerek, Frederick Ripley, and Vanessa Ripley.

On July 29, 1961, Shirley married the love of her life, Herbert Schnizer. Together they shared 64 years of marriage filled with love, devotion, and family. Shirley was a dedicated mother to her son, Mark Schnizer and his wife Jennifer, and her daughter, Jean Adams and her husband Douglas. She was a proud grandmother to Joseph and Ryan Schnizer, and Caroline and Madeleine Adams, delighting in their accomplishments and milestones. 

A gifted musician, Shirley devoted her life to music as a pianist, teacher, performer, and accompanist. She earned her Bachelor of Music degree from Miami University and her Master of Music from the University of Illinois. Over the course of more than 58 years, she taught private piano lessons, as well as serving on the faculties of the Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, Northern Kentucky University, and the College of Mount St. Joseph. She was an active member of professional musical organizations including Matinee Musicale, Clifton Music Club, the Ohio Music Teachers Association, and the Music Teachers National Association.

Shirley shared her musical gifts generously with her community and her church. A devoted member of St. Paul United Methodist Church, she sang in the choir, directed the Handbell Choir, played the organ and piano, and contributed to the St. Paul Presents Concert Series. One of her greatest joys was accompanying her daughter Jean in countless flute recitals, auditions, and concerts.

Shirley will be remembered for her extraordinary musicianship, her deep faith, and her unwavering love for her family. Her legacy of teaching, performing, and inspiring others through music will continue to resonate in the lives she touched.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Theron and Vivian Usher, and her brother, Theron Usher Jr.

A memorial service celebrating Shirley's life will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. at St. Paul United Methodist Church in Cincinnati, Ohio. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Paul United Methodist Church.