Billie Imogene Watters Shafer

Queen Of Our Hearts

Surrounded by her loving family, on 09/05/2026, our beloved Imogene the Beauty Queen departed this earth just as she consciously wished- facing the majestic Wasatch Mountains, in her cozy bed, within the comfort of her cherished home, as the soft morning light kissed her face, the scent of roses filled the air, and a gentle breeze carried the sound of wind chimes and bird song into her room.

Although 98 years and 9 months “young” seems long, Imogene still embraced life as a party that she didn’t want to miss! She loved life, and continued to open herself to experiences and people with genuine curiosity.

Like a well-cut diamond with so many facets, she too was one-of-a-kind, who reflected many personality traits. Her epic book of life was filled with multiple chapters; all the characters and scenes within it were richer for her presence.

Her journey began in the tiny mountain town of Oneida, Tennessee. Born to parents Ira Harris Watters and Arizona Cooper Watters. She was the second daughter, following the loss of two first born infant sons Ira Raymond and James Roy. Her mother was a particularly warm person, and through her hospitality the family welcomed traveling missionaries into their humble home. While living with them for several months, the L.D.S. faith became a part of their lives. Imogene recalled how they were baptized in a near-by lake. The calling that her parents faced created their desire to move to S.L.C., Utah. Imogene would speak of how her father preceded them and her young mother later came by train with six children under the age of 10! She told the tale of being on the train with youthful excitement. The year was 1936 when a wide-eyed 8 year old stepped off the train and into a new life in the city. She met the new with the enthusiasm of a child on an adventure, but never lost the fond memories of her Tennessee roots, particularly playing in the woods.

As a young adult she worked at Bennett’s Paint where she met the love of her life William B. Shafer. They enjoyed nearly 60 full and varied years together until his passing.

By nature, she was a true philocalist (A person who has the ability to see beauty in all things). Hence a nickname (given by her youngest child) Imogene the Beauty Queen followed her throughout her adult life.

As her artistic eye developed, she demonstrated how she was equally at ease dressed in diamonds and designer clothes, or denim with dirt under her well-manicured nails.

As a young mother with modest means, through her artistry, she transformed their house into a uniquely appointed home using cast off objects and repurposing them into art. Her decorating talents were twice highlighted in the Desert Newspaper and the Salt Lake Tribune. She went on to work intermittently as an interior designer. As a poet, accomplished painter, fashionista (who adored her hats), and a model, she turned her life into a canvas of elegance. She also loved dancing, all types of music, travel, and creative conversation that often turned to humor. As a lover of nature, she was a natural bird whisperer, cat and dog lover, puppy nanny, outstanding flower gardener and a gourmet cook who transformed our father’s wild game hunts into feasts of love. From her Tennessee roots to the vibrant petals of her prized roses, Imogene designed a “masterpiece of life.”

Her greatest joy was being social. She appreciated meeting people, neighbors, and developing friendships. Imogene dearly loved her given and chosen family. She remained close to her siblings, enjoyed an array of activities with her children and loved anytime spent with her grandchildren. Every partner her family chose became equally valued. She was fond of any opportunity to pass on a smile, a little flirtation, and her deep wisdom. She made precious moments stand out as special.

Prior to returning to her home for the last 9 weeks of her life, she called The Ridge Cottonwood, Memory Care her home for 4 years. She flourished socially in this community and was provided the extra support she needed to live an enriched daily life. The family extends their deep appreciation to staff at The Ridge at Cottonwood, to the exceptional team from Inspiration Hospice, especially “her” Amber, and to the lovely aides from Visiting Angels., all of whom provided compassionate, professional, and dignified care. Thank you to all who supported her, and to those who became dear friends through this last chapter, and for those that continued to visit her. She loved all of you.

Survived by two children Jill Shafer and Bryan (Vickie)Shafer, 6 grandchildren Gabriel (Sarah) Joy, Erin (Gonzalo) Vidales, Breeann, Brett, Chad, Clay, and 6 great grandchildren. Sisters Lois, Gertrude, Mary Nell, sister- in- law Helen, nieces, nephews, and their decedents, especially close to niece Phyllis. Preceded in death by her husband William B. Shafer, beloved daughter Nancy (Stephen) Clark, sisters Lillian, Jeanine, Caroline, brothers James , Michael, and Richard.

The overarching lesson gained through Imogene’s later years, is despite cognitive decline, one can continue to enjoy life and be a shining light that can connect heart to heart. What she’d want most is that we strive to be kind and accepting of one another. She’d say to never give way, keep growing, loving and sharing your unique self until the adventure that is your life becomes complete with one last exhale. It’s all beautiful in its own way…

Party on Billie Imogene!

You are so loved, and will not be forgotten.

A celebration of her life will be held on Wednesday 09/16/26, 12 noon at Valley View Memorial Funeral Home, 4335 West 4100 South West Valley City, Utah, where a viewing will be held on Tuesday 09/15/2026 from 5pm- 7pm, and 1 hour prior to services.

Internment following services at Valley View Memorial Park.