Shirley Rottle Koury

October 26, 1943 – July 15, 2026

Shirley Rottle Koury passed away on July 15, 2026, after a courageous 10-year battle with ovarian cancer. Throughout her journey, she met every challenge with remarkable strength, determination, and grace. She remained a warrior until the very end, inspiring her family, friends, and caregivers every step of the way.

Shirley was born on October 26, 1943, in Elma, Washington, to Elias and Margaret Rottle. She was raised in Montesano, Washington, in a close-knit first-generation Lebanese family whose values of faith, family, hard work, and generosity shaped the person she would become.

After earning her teaching degree from the University of Washington, Shirley taught high school business until she met the love of her life, Robert “Bob” Koury, in 1968. They were married in 1969, spending their first year of married life in Los Angeles, before moving to Oregon to be closer to Shirley’s family in Washington. Once settled in Portland, Oregon, Shirley and Bob raised a family of their own while also building a successful real estate business.

Shirley was a mom to many. The cookie jar was always full, dinner was always on the table at 5:00 p.m., and there was always room for one more around it. Her home was a gathering place where friends and family felt welcome, cared for, and loved. She was the family historian, with an uncanny ability to remember every birthday, anniversary, the passing of loved ones, and the stories that connected generations. She played the piano beautifully, loved to sing, and was known for her quick wit and wonderful sense of humor. Her homemade Grabie, the traditional Lebanese sugar cookies she lovingly baked, will forever remind family and friends of the warmth of her kitchen. Above all, Shirley found her greatest joy in taking care of others, and her greatest legacy is the family and friendships she nurtured throughout her life.

Shirley and Bob shared a wonderful life filled with adventure. Together they traveled throughout the United States, explored Europe, visited Lebanon with family and friends, and enjoyed many cruises. Their marriage was a partnership built on love, faith, family, and hard work. Together they created a life that continues to shape generations.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Elias and Margaret Rottle; her brothers, Elias Rottle, Jack Rottle, and Jacob Rottle; and her beloved husband of 56 years, Robert “Bob” Koury, who passed away on March 10, 2026.

Shirley is survived by her daughter, Margaret Koury Goff (Laris); her son, Robert Koury II (Denise); her daughter, Michelle Koury; and her cherished grandchildren, Jenna McPheeters (Kai), Lucy Koury, and Robert Koury III “Bobby.”

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the physicians, nurses, and staff at Compass Oncology, as well as the many other healthcare professionals, caregivers, family, and friends who surrounded Shirley with extraordinary compassion throughout her 10-year cancer journey. We also thank the staff and caregivers at Touchmark West Hills for the kindness and compassionate care they provided during Shirley and Bob's final years, and for the many meaningful friendships they found there. The family will be forever grateful for the love, compassion, and support shown to them along the way.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Shirley’s life on Monday, July 20, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 3131 NE Glisan Street, Portland, OR 97232. A traditional Lebanese Mercy Meal will follow in the church hall, where all are welcome to gather, share memories, celebrate Shirley’s remarkable life, and continue the fellowship she cherished. A private burial will be held for the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Ovarian Cancer Alliance of Oregon and Southwest Washington or St. George Orthodox Church.

After 56 years of marriage, their time apart was brief. We find peace in knowing they are together once again.