Born January 23, 1936, in National City, California, Shirley was the second of two children of Charles and Hazel Landers. Raised in National City, Shirley was the first of four generations to graduate from Sweetwater High School. Upon graduation she attended Jr. College and went on to marry Gilbert Howerton in 1956, also of National City. After marriage, Shirley became a homemaker and gave birth to three daughters and one son. Shirley would later enter the bridal industry working part-time at Babs Bridals in San Diego between 1973 and 1990.
A good crossword was a favorite of Shirleys and she could finish in record time. She always started the day reading her Jesus Calling 365-day devotional along with the daily newspaper. Shirley loved to dance as a child and took up tap dancing for a second time at age 40; she danced for another 45 years both professionally and recreationally with her good friends Jack and Carol Ann. She had an extensive rock collection and would gather a new rock for her collection everywhere she visited. She learned to hunt and fish from her husband, Gil, and looked forward to the opening of dove season where she would spend time hunting birds with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Shirley loved to throw a party for any reason and excelled in her hostess abilities, making sure everyone in her home had their food and drink before she would sit down to eat at the festivities.
Shirley is survived by her brother Charles Edgar Landers; daughter Anne/Mike Meyers; daughter Linda/Chris Apodaca; son Edward/Lori Howerton; grandchildren Anthony, Richard, Jordan, Brandon, Nicholas, Daniele, Joseph and Jacob; great grandchildren Eva, Ella, Richard, and Hunter; Shirley was preceded in death by her daughter Donna and husband Gilbert.
A service is scheduled at Glen Abbey Memorial Park in Bonita, California on Friday, August 7, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at the Chapel of the Roses followed by a graveside service. Shirley loved flowers; however, her favorite charity was St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Serving as pallbearers are Shirley’s grandsons: Anthony, Richard, Jordan, Nicholas, Joseph, and Jacob. Alternate: Brandon O’Connor.
