May 22, 1921, Portland, Oregon ~
June 20, 2011, Portland, Oregon
Shirley May Rice was born in Portland, Oregon, to parents Burgess W. and Bertha M. (Tartarini) Rice on May 22, 1921.
She attended Failing Grade School and graduated from Girl's Poly / Monroe High School.
Shirley exchanged wedding vows with John P. Nero on September 14th, 1941, in Portland, Oregon. John passed away in 1988.
She worked as a clerk for Meier and Frank and later as a clerk for Multnomah County.
Shirley was an accomplished seamstress and taught many how to sew. Her main creative passion was for tole painting. In the 1970's, Shirley taught many the art and skill of tole painting from a basement studio classroom that she had set up in her own home. She visited Hawaii and had a wonderful, memorable visit to New York City in the Autumn. Of all the things Shirley enjoyed, her favorite thing was to just spend time with her family. She loved participating in family get-togethers and meals.
She is predeceased by her husband John (1988); Parents Burgess and Bertha Rice; and brother Burgess "Red" Rice (2003).
Survivors include her Sons John (wife Alice) of Eugene, OR, and Jay (wife Sandy) of Portland, OR; grandchildren Sara Nero of Alexandria Bay, New York, Michael Nero of Portland, OR, Paul Nero of Eugene, and Nicole Deuerling also of Eugene; and great-granddaughters, Samantha and Lauryn Nero.
She will be privately laid to rest in Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Portland, Oregon.
Remembrances in lieu of flowers may be made to Sacred Heart Hospice in Eugene, OR.
Please revisit this site for updates to Shirley's story in words and pictures.
Arrangements under the direction of Skyline Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, Portland, OR. (503) 292-6611
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