Diane P. Shirley

Diane Pearce Shirley, of Sun Lakes, AZ passed away peacefully after a lengthy illness, on April 30, 2022, at the age of 87. She was the beloved wife of Harold Shirley. Born in Middletown, CT to Malcom B Pearce, SR and Louise Bowyer Pearce. She was raised in Durham, CT and spent many years in the Pittsburgh area before moving to Arizona. She worked as a substitute teacher in Pittsburgh and locally at the Cottonwood Golf Course. A lifelong equestrian rider, she owned horses from the 1940’s to 1980’s. During this time she won many awards for showmanship. She loved animals of all kinds but especially her dogs. She traveled the country with her husband Harold on their Goldwing motorcycle and later in their RV. She also enjoyed painting both watercolors and oils. She was a longtime member of the First Baptist Church of Sun Lakes.

Diane is survived by her husband, Harold Shirley of Sun Lakes, AZ; sons James (Cyndi) Farrington of Huntington Beach, CA, Robert Farrington of Rhoadesvile, VA, Harold J. Shirley (Darlene) of Saltsburg, PA; daughters: Kimberly Martinez of Destin, FL and Jacqueline R. (Peter) Bolic of Myrtle Beach, SC. Grandchildren: Rachel, Michelle, Nathan, Sarah, Jennifer, Brittney, Tyler, Brian and numerous great-grandchildren. Sister Susan (William) Rundle of Venice, FL.

Diane was preceded in death by her parents Malcom and Louise Pearce, SR, her brother Malcom Pearce, JR, her daughter Kathryn Cochran and her granddaughter, Stephanie Johnson.

There is no visitation at this time but a celebration of life ceremony will be held at a later date.

Flowers are gratefully declined. Those who wish, memorial donations may be made to Always Present Hospice, 1400 N. Gilbert Road, Suite P, Gilbert, AZ 85234 or the First Baptist Church of Sun Lakes, 9535 East Riggs Road, Sun Lakes, AZ 85248.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.valleyofthesunfuneralhome.com for the Shirley family.