Shirley Irene Baney, 86, Benkelman, Nebraska died February 24, 2017 at the Sarah Ann Hester Home in Benkelman, Nebraska.
Shirley was born March 9, 1930 near Benkelman to Vera and Gifford Baney. She spent her entire life in Benkelman. Shirley graduated from Benkelman High School in 1948. She attended Business College in Denver. She returned home and worked in restaurants assisting her mother. Her parents sent her to Denver florist school to assist them with the greenhouse and flower business. She enjoyed arranging flowers and delivering bouquets in her father’s panel truck. At the encouragement of her father, Shirley ran for the Dundy County Treasurers position, which she was elected to the position and served the county faithfully for many terms. She was very proud of her years of service to Dundy County.
After retirement from the Treasurer’s office she spent her days manicuring her yard and flowers taking great pride in maintaining her home that she purchased and patiently remodeled. She served in many capacities for the Benkelman United Methodist Church over the years, including financial secretary and UMW treasurer. She was a member of the United Methodist Church for 73 years. She also kept the altar adorned in flowers for the various seasons and holidays. She enjoyed the music of the church and sang in the choir. Shirley was able to stay in her home until September of 2012 when various health issues sent her to the Hester Home.
Shirley is survived by sister, Betty Baney, Greeley,CO; nieces, Jeanene (Greg) Burrows, Benkelman; Lona (Hal) Holbrook, Greeley, CO and Kathy (Leonard) Jewell, Texas, and nephew Mike Powell. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Gene Baney and goddaughter Angela Stroh.
The family is extremely grateful for the loving care and friendship of Sue Nelms and family, who were devoted friends to Shirley.
A Celebration of Life will be held 10:30 A.M. (MT), Monday, February 27, 2017 at Trinity Baptist Church in Benkelman with pastor Dave Logsdon officiating. Interment will follow services in the Benkelman Cemetery.
Visitation will be held prior to services, the same day as services at Trinity Baptist Church.
A memorial has been established in Shirley’s memory.
Online condolences can be left at liewerfuneralhome.com
BENKELMAN MEMORIAL CHAPEL IS ENTRUSTED WITH ARRANGEMENTS