Shirlee Anne Nunley

Shirlee Anne Nunley, of Stuart, Florida, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2026, at Hospice of Stuart, Florida surrounded by her family. She was born on November 20, 1940, in Chicago, Illinois, and celebrated her 85th birthday on November 20, 2025.

Shirlee was a woman of extraordinary gentleness and kindness. She was admired by all who knew her as a sweet soul who never had a harsh word to say about or to anyone. Her quiet compassion, warm smile, and caring heart left a lasting imprint on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

A devoted Christian, Shirlee faithfully attended church services every Sunday and drew comfort, peace, and strength from her faith throughout her life.

She is survived by her two beloved sons, Paul Nunley (Robin) and David Nunley, who were the pride and joy of her life. She is also lovingly remembered by her step-grandchildren, who enjoyed visiting with her and always spoke fondly of her gracious and loving nature.

Shirlee shared close and cherished relationships with her nieces (especially Laurie, Bonnie, Donna and Dawn) nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews living in many states across the country, with whom she shared deep family bonds. Shirlee enjoyed keeping in touch with family and friends and wrote letters religiously, even when her eyesight began to fail. You could count on a letter from Shirlee nearly once a week, even to those who lived nearby.

In her later years, Shirlee made her home at Brookdale of Stuart, where she found joy in daily routines and friendships. She quickly made friends and became a fixture at activities and events there. She experienced a newfound independence in her new home and was very content her last few years living in Florida. She especially loved playing bingo and spending time with fellow residents and the caring associates who treated her with such kindness and respect.

She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Lisa Nunley, who passed away on May 3, 1985, from cystic fibrosis, as well as her siblings, Alan Zapf and Diane Kirkpatrick.

Shirlee’s life was defined by love, patience, and grace. Her gentle spirit will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all whose lives she touched.

Kindness came easy to Shirlee and the family asks that you please consider an intentional and meaningful act of kindness in her memory. The world would be a better place if there were more like Shirlee in it.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in Shirlee’s and Lisa’s memory:

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation – Southeast Florida Chapter

700 S. Dixie Highway, Suite 100

West Palm Beach, FL 3340