Shirley Lea Stone

Shirley Lea Stone, wife to Richard Stone and mother to Don, Dorothy, and David, passed away on December 2 at 9:20 p.m. after a short battle with pancreatic cancer. Her final moments were spent peacefully in her home in Hayden, surrounded by family.

Shirley was born in Steamboat Springs on Feb. 18, 1940 to William and Marie Stender. She lived on the “Stender Ranch” on Elk River through high school. She met the love of her life Richard Stone in High School and was united in marriage on October 5th, 1958, right after graduating High School. They lived on Hill Street until 1972, which then moved back to Elk River on land that previously was of the ranch. Shirley worked at Lyon Drugs for 35 years. She and Richard enjoyed spending time with Brother Willie and wife Larae, Sister Marianne and husband Bill and dozens of close friends. They enjoyed camping, fishing and raising a beautiful garden. Apparently one of the neighbors also enjoyed her talent of gardening, as he was found stealing radishes frequently. After the kids were raised, Richard and Shirley found themselves living in Hayden, enjoying small town life once again.

Known for treating everyone as family, Shirley will be dearly missed by all who knew her. Shirley’s family asks that she be remembered for the joy she brought to others in life. She is survived by husband Richard, children: Don Stone from Sheridan WY, Dorothy Monsees, (Dave) from Loveland and David Stone, Steamboat Springs. She had 3 Grandchildren: Michelle, Justin, and Katelynn (Lucas), 7 Great-Grandchildren: Michael, Kaylea, Emma, Jerramya, Ava, Liam and Cassidy and her beloved dog Tuffy. And all of the kids over the years that called her mom.

A memorial will be held in the Spring, her favorite time of year. Details to be given at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Shirley's memory to the Routt County Humane Society in care of Grant Mortuary, 621 Yampa Avenue, Craig, Colorado 81625.