Shirley Faye Thomas Kerr

After five long years without her darling Jim, she ran joyfully into his embrace. Her father, mother, and three sisters, as well as so many cherished loved ones, are certainly thrilled to have her again; but her children and chosen children: Linda and Randy Pearson, David and Kathy Kerr, Lara Kerr, Brian and Lorilee Kerr, Heather Loughmiller, Clark and Tiffanie Kerr, and Jon and Shauna Kerr, mourn her loss.

Her 30 grandchildren; 49 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson will miss her so much, as will myriad people who knew her as Mom and Grandma, teacher and friend, and who benefited from her amazing example of fortitude and faith. Willingly and cheerfully, she served in many capacities in her church and community, holding valiantly to her cherished faith in God, and touching countless lives.

Her parents’ first child, Shirley was born in Salt Lake City on February 22, 1927, and was enveloped in the closeness and caring of her large extended family. She later moved with her mother and sisters to California not long after her father died. There she eventually met her sweetheart, James L. Kerr, Jr., and was sealed to him for eternity in the LDS temple in Salt Lake City.

Shirley was a wonderful helpmeet and homemaker, baking bread from scratch, planning fun parties where everyone felt welcome, and serving up treats to anyone who showed up. She shopped with an uncanny ability to find the best prices, and she adeptly rode herd on her sizeable brood. She sewed everyone’s clothing, and even tailored a suit for Jim one year. She was skilled at doctoring everyone’s “owies” (whether on hands or hearts).

Grandma Shirley always tried to see the best in people, and scores of children (and adults) blossomed and soared because of her open arms and accepting attitude. Even when she was so ill, her focus was on others’ comfort and care. Her shining example will live on.

A memorial will be held in her honor on Saturday, May 21st, 2016 at 2 pm at the LDS Church, 1020 Creston Rd., in Paso Robles, California. Shirley hopes that some will choose to donate to Primary Children’s Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah. Arrangements under the direction of Kuehl-Nicolay Funeral Home, Paso Robles, CA.