Montezuma – Our sister, Shirley, was born on October 3, 1934 to Sam and Agnes Unruh at Copeland. She slipped away in the quiet morning hours of May 18, 2020, into the arms of Jesus, with whom she had longed to be with.

Shirley received her education at the rural Colusa School, in the local community. She lived her entire life on the family farm north of Copeland. She came from a family of eleven children, she being the fifth sibling. By nature she was a quiet sister, who was contented to fill her place behind the scenes. She was an agreeable person, never causing a commotion of any kind. Shirley would rather not have been in the limelight or be given too much honor.

After hearing God's call at the age of 13, she surrendered her life to Jesus. Being a sincere Christian, she chose to live a simple life style. Her life was devoted to her Lord, Who did so much for her. This was evidenced in a thankful and conscientious spirit. Shirley's treasure truly was in Heaven as she had a contented heart and money meant very little to her. She often clung to the verse in Isaiah 26:3. "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee, because he trusteth in thee." This became a personal assurance of her salvation.

Shirley's passion was in cooking and baking. Many will remember her sour cream twists and fresh homemade donuts. Never being married, she exercised her gifts and abilities by the special talent of "Helps". She was ready to volunteer her services in ways of her capability. She often was willing to care for her nephews and nieces when they were young.

One of Shirley's most outstanding talents was evident as she faithfully cared for Dad and Mother in their later years. Her caring heart was appreciated by her brothers and sisters. In her younger years, Shirley loved to sing and often sang with her sisters before retiring every night. It was a love that never left her. After she moved to Bethel Home in 2012, she rarely missed being in the chapel when there was singing.

We as the family are very grateful for all the kind loving workers at Bethel Home, who did a wonderful job of taking care of our sister Shirley. Thanks be to God that her longing to "Go Home" was granted to her.

Those left behind are her four sisters, Vada (wife of the late Melvin Unruh), Maxine (wife of Eldon Schmidt), Sylvia (wife of Delton Wedel), Jeanette (wife of Devern Nightengale), all of Montezuma; two brothers, Eugene and wife Janice, and Sam Jr. and wife Jan, both of Montezuma; one brother-in-law, Ervin Nightengale of Scott City; as well as many nephews and nieces. She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers; two sisters; one brother-in-law; and three sisters-in-law.

Graveside service will be held at Salem Mennonite Church, Copeland on Thursday, May 21, 2020 at 11:00 AM with Ministers Steve Unruh and Kelsey Unruh presiding.  Visitation will be at Swaim Funeral Chapel, Montezuma on Wednesday, May 20, 2020 from 12:00 to 7:00 PM.  Memorials are suggested to Bethel Home in care of the funeral home.  Thoughts and memories may be shared in the online guest book at www.swaimfuneralhome.com.