Shirley Britz

Shirley Anne Britz (Heilman)

Shirley Anne Britz was born on November 28, 1942, in Zillah, Washington, to Matthew and Sena Heilman. One of seven children, Shirley was the second youngest in a lively household. She was raised on her family’s agricultural farm in Granger, where sugar beets, wheat, and corn were the main crops. Life on the farm was defined by hard work, a house full of brothers, and the occasional cherished escape riding her pony across the fields.

Her early schooling was much like that of many children in the area, but her high school years marked a special distinction. Shirley was among the first students to attend the newly opened Central Catholic High School on the west side of Yakima, later known as Carroll High School. She graduated with honors as a member of the school’s very first graduating class.

After graduation, Shirley moved to Beaverton, Oregon, where she lived with her older sister, Lillian, and began working at Tektronix. During a visit home one weekend, she met Tim Britz, who was on leave from the Navy. The two quickly formed a deep connection, and over the following year they exchanged a steady stream of heartfelt letters.

In the spring of 1962, after Tim’s discharge from the Navy, Shirley and Tim were married. Their marriage was blessed with six children and a life filled with shared work, changing homes, and a thriving business partnership. For more than six decades, their relationship stood as a testament to love, devotion, and a steadfast commitment to family.

Shirley was deeply devoted to her children and their lives. From the day her eldest, Tim Jr., began grade school until her youngest son, Matthew, graduated high school, she made it her mission to be present and involved in everything they did. She consistently went out of her way to show each of her children how deeply she loved them, encouraging independence while always offering her unwavering support. Her loyalty to her family was never in question.

Beyond her home, Shirley was a respected and active leader in the Catholic community. She gave countless hours to helping families and supporting organizations that served others. Whether working with Catholic Charities, participating in women’s groups, or contributing her time to St. Joseph’s Grade School PTA, Shirley’s generosity and dedication were evident in all she did.

In her later years, Shirley faced the difficult challenge of confronting her family’s history of mental decline and Alzheimer’s disease. She sought ways to slow its progression, but ultimately accepted life with grace and courage. She completed her journey with a deep sense of peace, comforted by faith and the belief that she would be welcomed into God’s loving hands.

Shirley is survived by the love of her life, her husband Tim Britz, whose patience, kindness, and devotion were constant throughout their 64 years together. Their lives were deeply intertwined, and together they built a partnership that strengthened them both.

She is also lovingly remembered by her six children—Tim Jr., Debbie, Bonnie, Sena, Bret, and Matthew—who will forever cherish her as mother, friend, and teacher. Each carries treasured memories of her warmth, her laughter, and the love she so freely gave in hugs, smiles, and gentle encouragement.

Shirley is further survived by her brother Robert Heilman, the last living sibling with whom she shared so much of her early life. Together they endured the trials and joys of growing up on the family farm, forming a bond that remained strong throughout the years.

Throughout her life, Shirley touched the hearts of countless people—far too many to name here. If you were fortunate enough to call her a friend, to receive one of her warm smiles, or to be comforted by her kind words, then you were blessed by someone who truly cared.

“There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart.”

— Mahatma Gandhi

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on March 30, 2026 at 1:30 PM at Holy Family Catholic Church in the chapel.