Shirley Elaine Bunn

Shirley Elaine Bunn, aged 94, passed away on February 25, 2025, in Marysville, Washington. Born on December 22, 1930, in Bellingham, Washington, Shirley led a life marked by compassion, dedication, and a vibrant sense of humor.

In 1948, she graduated from Bellingham High School. and soon embarked on a career that showcased her nurturing spirit. She began working as a telephone operator, moved on to a position at a bank, and eventually found her calling as a special needs teacher within the Marysville School District. Her patience and love transformed many lives, as she helped young individuals with disabilities master daily life skills.

Shirley married the love her life, Merle Bunn on March 17th, 1950, at the Bellingham Church of Christ with the groom's father, minister of the church, as officiant.

A devout member of the Everett Church of Christ for many years, Shirley was actively involved in teaching classes, organizing potlucks, and participating in women's study groups. Her faith and commitment to her community were profound and influenced many.

Shirley's personal life was filled with joy and loving relationships. She was married to Merle Bunn since 1950 until his passing in 2015, there were married for 65 years. She is survived by her children, Keith Bunn, Krista Steele, and Mary Wood; her brother, Lanny Weeks and sister-in-law Kay Weeks of Bellingham, WA. She has many grandchildren, Jesse Bunn and family of Alaska, Aaron Bunn and family of Alaska, Sarah Clark and family of Smokey Point, Taylor Wood of Marysville, and Fantasia Riley. She also has many great-grandchildren who knew and loved her.

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, Merle Bunn, and her parents, Raymond and Mabel Weeks.

An avid hobbyist, Shirley enjoyed knitting, sewing, painting, and writing. She was also an excellent gardener and pianist, with a particular knack for crossword puzzles. Her hobbies reflected her creative spirit and intellectual curiosity. She loved beachcombing around the various islands in the Puget Sound area while boating with Merle, her children and whatever beloved dog she had at the time.

A service to celebrate Shirley's well lived life will be held at the Church of Christ in Marysville, Washington, on March 7, 2025, at 11 am, followed by a potluck lunch. Shirley's life was a testament to her kind-hearted nature, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.