Shirley Ballard O'Brien

Shirley Ballard O’Brien, AKA “Housekeeper”, 94, graduated from her earthly existence September 22, 2016 in Phoenix Arizona, leaving behind a heck of a lot of stuff her family has no idea what to do with. So, if you are looking for toilet paper, aluminum foil, circa 1950 bar soap, or various kitchen appliances and trinkets from the discount store with receipts still attached and still in the bag, please wait the appropriate amount of time and then get in touch.

But this is not an ad for a home goods store. This is a memorial and tribute to a kind and generous woman, loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and comedic friend. Born December 15, 1921, in Snowflake, Arizona, to Harvey Ballard and Selma McNeil, Shirley was the oldest of 6 children. Her life was filled with much laughter, tears, jokes, crochet hooks, and a LOT of good deals.

Shirley married the love of her life, William “Bill” O’Brien on July 2, 1943 in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Shirley enjoyed her years of employment with Phoenix College. She was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and loved serving in various capacities including primary teacher, young women’s secretary, and visiting teacher. She always said that though she was alone for many years (a younger widow), she never felt lonely. This was because of the wonderful friendships she had with her dear “sisters” in Relief Society.

Shirley is preceded in death by her parents, husband Bill, son Russell Douglas, brother Russell Harvey, and sister Marion Harper. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Dennis and Deanna; daughter-in-law, Marae; sisters Anita Savage, Vivian Mortensen, Barbara Brown; daughter-of-her-heart, Joy Keeney; 9 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on September 29, 2016 at the LDS chapel located at 2222 North 40th Street Phoenix, Arizona. Friends may call prior to services from 9:00 to 9:45 AM and services will begin at 10:00 AM. Burial will follow at Resthaven / Carr-Tenney Memorial Gardens, located at 4310 East Southern Avenue, Phoenix, Arizona.

True to Shirley form, she didn’t like any of the candidates this election, so she decided to vote for Heaven. In lieu of flowers, please buy yourself and your neighbors an “Everybody Sucks 2016” yard sign, or donate to Hospice of the Valley.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Resthaven / Carr-Tenney Mortuary & Memorial Gardens, Phoenix, Arizona.