Memorial services for Shirley Yowell, 85, Lawrence, will be at 10:30 am January 4, 2020 at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home with Rev. Tom Brady officiating. She was born April 22, 1934, in Kansas City, MO, daughter of Jacob and Mabel Heer. She died Wednesday, December 4th, 2019, at Lawrence Memorial Hospital surrounded by family.
Shirley grew up in Kansas City, Mo. After graduating from high school, she attended St. Luke’s School of Nursing where she graduated as an RN. In 1957 she met the man who would be her husband, Jim Yowell. They were married April 19th, 1958. They settled in Lawrence, KS where they raised their four children.
Shirley was a stay at home mom, busy with four active children, until the youngest child was school age. At that time, she returned to nursing, working for the Visiting Nurses Association of Douglas County. While employed at the VNA, she furthered her nursing career by getting certified as an Enterostomal Therapist. She was the first, and for many years the only ET in Douglas County. She worked for the VNA for nearly 30 years before retiring.
In 1978, Shirley was widowed when her husband, Jim, passed away unexpectedly. At the time of his death, he owned the Medical Arts Pharmacy, which Shirley continued to own and manage for 10 years. Life was busy and crazy during this time. Raising four teenage children as a single parent, seeing patients as a visiting nurse, and managing the business side of the pharmacy was a challenge not many could endure. Thanks to the support and assistance of the many good friends and staff she was surrounded by, she was able to “wear all the hats” successfully. Those who knew and remember Shirley, remember her as being one of the strongest women they ever knew!
She was a long time, and active member of the First United Methodist Church. When her children were young, she taught Sunday School. In later years, she attended exercise classes at the church, helped make quilts, assisted in the business office with preparing mailings, and volunteered at the annual Christmas Dinner, where she baked and served pies.
Shirley is survived by her two daughters, Joani Wardle (Mark) of Olathe, KS, Suzy Myers (Jon) of Broken Arrow, OK, and her son, Greg Yowell (Barbie) of Lawrence, KS. Eleven Grandchildren: Kylee Stalkfleet-Conrad, Travis Stalkfleet, Jeremy Wardle, Justin Wardle, Luke Wardle, Brooke Wardle, Eric Yowell, Ryan Yowell, Michelle Myers, Jamie Myers, Chris Myers, and 5 great grandchildren.
She is preceded in death by her parents, sister Lois Dixon, husband Jim, daughter Linda Yowell-Stalkfleet, and great grandson Peyton Conrad.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to the Visiting Nurses, sent in care of Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, PO Box 1260, Lawrence KS 66044.
To the entire family of Shirley (especially Kylee), please know that I am thinking of all of you, today. I have the best memories of Granny Shirl…. From Kylee and I having sleep overs at her house, trips to the movie theater, brunch at First Watch, watching (and yelling at) KU basketball games on TV, to senior prom pictures at her house…. The love she had for her family, was fierce. She will be greatly missed! Sending all of my love to each of you. Kylee- I love you, girl. Thank for being my friend, and thank you for introducing me to Granny…. The memories I hold of her, will always be special!
Sending condolences. From what little time I got to spend with her, I could tell she was a wonderful lady.
Gre,g, Suzy, Barbie, Jon and the rest of the family. My heartfelt condolences out to all of you. Treasurer those memories. Love and hugs!
Sending sincere condolences for the loss of your mother and grandmother. Hoping all your fond memories comfort you in the tough times ahead.
Greg, Suzy thinking of you , she must have been an amazing! Sorry for your loss.
My fond memory is visiting the American Jazz Museum with Shirley, Greg and Barbie. Shirley’s eye light up with whole time we were there. My condolences to the Yowell family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
I am so sorry for your loss. Shirley sounds like a wonderful mother and a great woman. She obviously had a full amazing life. Hugs and condolences to all of you
Greg & Barbie – As we visited at Bob’s Celebration of Life that we talked about your Mom and her challenges. Strange how life moves and changes so quickly for families. Wishing you and the family great lasting memories of your Mother.
To the family—I was so sorry to hear of her passing. My heart goes out to you all, and you will be in our prayers.
Greg, so sorry to hear of your loss. Your mother and I were high school friends at Westport in Kansas City. We know that it is a difficult time for you and your family as your childhood friend, Mark, just lost his Dad. Our thoughts are with you.
Cynthia Galyardt
My sympathy to the Yowell family. I remember what a wonderful neighbor Shirley was back in the 2nd St. Terrace days and what a wonderful family she had.
Suzy, Greg and all the family we are thinking of you and send lots of thoughts and prayers your way. Eric and Marge Epperson
My thoughts are will Greg and the rest of the family..such a warm and kind person.
Shirley was a great mom! She always made sure that Linda had a great time on her birthday 🎉, scavenger hunts through the neighborhood off Kasold St, mini 🍕 for all of us.Staying up all night in the basement. Great memories ❣️ RIP Mrs Yowell, hug Linda for me!
Shirley was a wonderful nurse who inspired and supported me when I needed it so much. She cared for her patents with care and concern. She was a wonderful teacher.
To the family-I’m so sorry for your loss. She was one strong lady.