On April 1st, 2026, the good Lord called up His faithful servant, 77 year old, Shirley Elaine Girone, to be with Him in Heaven. A fitting day, as Elaine (or “Shirl” as her husband of 57 years liked to call her in jest) loved a good laugh, or inside joke cloaked in sarcasm. We can just hear her now…“Of course it would happen to me on April Fool’s Day!”

Elaine Girone was a selfless and loving Wife, Mom, Daughter, Sister, and Friend. She was the first person you would call for help or to listen. She was a master shopper, expert bargain hunter, Brownie & Girl Scout Leader, Dance Mom, Homeroom Mom, and our everything. She was an amazing mother and best friend to her only child, Joelle…and no one loved their grandchild more than “Gramma” Elaine loved her Daylin.

But when you think of Elaine you also think of the man she loved since they were just 15 years old at Loveland High School in Ohio…her “Joey”. Elaine and Joe were more than just married partners, they were intertwined by a rare love that connects souls. They were truly one. And her heart is with him forever.

Elaine is predeceased by her Mom and Dad, Pauline Francis and Freeman Thomas “Tom” Downs; her brother, Tony Downs; her sisters, Phyllis and Kathy; and her grandson, Joseph Edward (Jedy) Drayton. Missing her terribly is her husband, Joseph S. Girone; daughter, Joelle (Girone) Drayton, son-in-law, Edward R. Drayton IV; beloved granddaughter, Daylin Drayton, and countless family members and friends. Elaine chose to be cremated. “No one else is doing my makeup!” She would say.

Remembrances can be shared here online, through Allen J. Harden Funeral Home located at 1800 North Donnelly St., Mount Dora, Florida 32757.

Donations in Elaine's honor can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.