Shirley Jean Greer

Shirley Jean Greer was born on July 15, 1936 in Benton, Missouri to Bill and Alma (Jobe) Turner. They moved to Yuma, Arizona when Shirley was about 9 months old. She graduated from Yuma Union High School. She attended Westmont College in Santa Barbara for a year and then finished her elementary education degree at Arizona State College (NAU). Shirley was active in her sorority, service clubs and honor society throughout college. She met Elroy at ASC, and they married in November, 1958.

Shirley began teaching in Flagstaff. She also taught in Kingman before they moved to Scottsdale. Shirley was a gifted and popular teacher, finishing her career at Tonalea Elementary, where she was known for her “pioneer day.” She led her 5-graders in making bread and butter, square dancing, etc. Shirley also taught Sunday School for many years.

Shirley is known as a devoted mother and grandmother, as well as for her wit,  cheerfulness, welcoming smile, fun-loving spirit and her crocheted afghans, scarves and hats. She loved unconditionally.

Shirley moved to Lakeside, Arizona in December, 2015. She made many friends over her years at Solterra. When she was able, Shirley made it a point to greet everyone individually throughout the dining hall at meal times.

Shirley passed away on December 13, 2022 at 86. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Elroy, and her beloved grandson Ryan. She is survived by her sister Betty (Les), her daughters Kathy, Lori and Vicki (Mark), grandchildren Dustin (Liz), Jenny (Bill), Kyle (Katie) and Savanna (Travis), and great-grandchildren Haylee, Jacob, Talen, Paysen, Payslee, Blayklee, Brady, Ryan and Hugo.

 A Celebration of Shirley’s Life will be held 1:00 P.M. Thursday, December 22, 2022 at the Owens Livingston Mortuary~White Mountain Chapel, 320 N. 9th Street, Show Low