Shirley Ann Masters

In Loving Memory of Shirley Ann Masters September 7, 1934 – May 4, 2026 With heavy hearts and profound gratitude for the life she lived, we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Born on September 7, 1934, in Jackson, Minnesota, she went to be with the Lord on May 4, 2026, her heart and body gently releasing her from this earthly life. Shirley was the cherished daughter of John and Helen Smith, who, along with her two brothers and two sisters, predeceased her. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Orville Ralph Masters, with whom she shared 47 years of marriage, beginning on June 12, 1958, in Omaha, Nebraska. Together, they raised a loving family. Shirley leaves behind a family that was her pride and joy, including her sister Arlis, her son Michael Masters and his wife Laurie, who blessed her with a grandson, Sean Masters, and his wife, along with a great-granddaughter. Her granddaughter Nikki, along with her husband, gave her three great-grandsons and one great-granddaughter. Her daughter Pamala McCumber, with her husband David, added to Shirley's legacy with a grandson, Narhan, and two great-granddaughters, as well as a grandson, Tyler, and his wife Britney, with their own great-grandson and granddaughter. Her daughter Kimberly Costello and her husband Randy blessed her with a granddaughter, Katie. Her daughter Brenda Tudor and her husband Jim gifted her with a granddaughter, Jesica, and two great-granddaughters, as well as grandsons James and Jonathan, the latter with his wife Marie, who are expecting a great-grandson. Her granddaughter Jenefer Martinez and her husband Paul brought her the joy of three great-granddaughters. Shirley's extended family includes her sisters-in-law, Eleanor Masters and Sharon Masters, who remained close by through her life. Shirley's educational journey began with her graduation from Jackson High School in 1952, followed by her time at Faith Baptist College in Omaha, where she graduated in 1956. Her professional life was marked by her roles as a phone operator and later as a beloved babysitter in Monroe, Iowa, where she cared for many precious children. Her nurturing spirit found its true calling in babysitting, a passion she pursued for many years. For a few years she also worked as a nightshift manager at Midlands Plasticts in Monroe. A woman of deep faith, Shirley was an active member of several Baptist churches, including Monroe First Baptist Church for over 25 years, and later, Prairie City Baptist, Colfax Baptist, Newton First Baptist, and Newton Baptist. Her spiritual life was a testament to her unwavering devotion to her family and friends. Shirley's life revolved around her family, especially her children’s sports, a passion that extended to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren’s athletic endeavors. Her unwavering support and enthusiasm were hallmarks of her character. A memorial service to honor Shirley's life will be held on May 11, 2026, at 3:00 PM at Newton Baptist Church in Newton, IA. Her family invites all who knew and loved her to join in celebrating the remarkable life she led and the indelible mark she left on all who were fortunate to know her. Forever in Our Hearts, Rest in Peace, Our Beloved Mom, Grandma & Great Grandma