Shirley Barnett

With heavy hearts but profound gratitude for her promotion into Paradise with the Lord Jesus, we announce the passing of Shirley Jean Barnett, who departed this world peacefully on June 3, 2026, at the age of 85. Born on June 7, 1940, in the charming town of Bishop, California, Shirley was the beloved daughter of John "Bud" Fair and Colleen Fair. Her journey through life was marked by love, laughter, and an enduring spirit that touched all who knew her. Shirley was preceded in death by her cherished daughter, Jeanette Mayfield, whose memory she held close throughout her days. She leaves behind a legacy of love and warmth in her surviving children: Jon Mayfield, Donna Mayfield, and Jena Miller, who will forever hold her in their hearts. A beautiful woman of intellect and dedication, Shirley graduated as Valedictorian from Bishop High School in 1958. She modeled in fashion shows as a young lady. Her career took her to typing and office training in Long Beach, CA. She worked at JFK Memorial Hospital in Indio, CA, as an executive secretary to the hospital administrator. She later contributed her skills as a clerk in the Auditor-Controller office at the Riverside County Controller in Riverside, CA. Throughout her professional life, Shirley was admired for her devotion and hard work. Shirley's passions extended beyond her career. Her love for nature was profound, finding joy in flowers, especially the delicate beauty of morning glories, sweet peas, hollyhocks and roses. She was captivated by the vastness of the country sky and the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains. An animal lover at heart, especially fond of cats and kittens, her compassion knew no bounds. She always tried to help any critter in need. Shirley was an avid reader with a keen interest in medical technologies and natural remedies, always eager to learn and share her insights. Her lovely singing voice was a testament to her love for the 40s and 50s music, and she found joy in classic movies, often singing along and sharing these treasures with those fortunate enough to join her. Her sharp wit and dry sense of humor were wonderful, bringing smiles and laughter. Shirley was a gentle soul with a generous heart, never swayed by materialism, making everyone feel valued and loved for who they truly were. Her enduring commitment for her children was evident in her unwavering support and encouragement, providing a steadfast comfort and anchor of love in their lives. In honor of her life, the family kindly suggests donations be made to any animal rescue and adoption organization of your choice, reflecting Shirley's generous spirit and her desire to make the world a better place. As we remember Shirley, we hold close the words of her favorite scripture: "Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into Heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into Heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into Heaven" (Acts 1:11). We find solace in knowing that Jesus is the Resurrection and the Life and all who trust in Him and are born again know that death is never the end but only a transition into the beginning of eternal life with Him. Shirley will forever be cherished. May we continue to feel her love and presence in the gentle whispers of the wind and the warmth of the sun. She rejoices now in Heaven's glorious light and love, where all things are made right. Our Lord and Savior Jesus holds her now in His mighty & adoring arms...until she is in ours again.