November 29, 1930 ~ August 10, 2021 (age 90)
Shirley Jane Thompson of Longmont died peacefully at her home on Tuesday, August 10. She was 90. Shirley was born on November 29, 1930 in Sioux City, Iowa, an only child, to Freeman Whitman and Laura Catherine (Frederick) Ellerd. Shirley grew up in Sioux City where she attended school.
She met the love of her life, Wallace Eugene “Gene” Thompson, and the two were married on February 3, 1950. Shirley was a stay-at-home mom who raised five children. She attended school and athletic functions which was a full-time occupation. She was also very active in church activities, singing in the choir, and serving where needed.
The Thompson family purchased land on the west side of Longmont in 1971 and built their home. In Longmont, Gene and Shirley became very active in the First United Methodist Church. Shirley participated in the chancel choir, the bell choir, and was a charter member of the ladies’ choir, Westley Anns. She was active also in UMW and was part of the Sarah Circle with UMW. Shirley was also a member of the FD PEO group.
Shirley’s favorite holiday was Christmas. She was active in the Holiday Fair at the church and decorated every room of her home for the holidays. She had several Christmas villages set up throughout the home and decorated six large trees with ornaments.
Gene and Shirley were also world travelers. They visited many countries in Europe, Egypt, Morocco, Turkey, Costa Rica, Canada, and many places in the United States. A trip to Washington, D. C. in 2009 was enjoyed by both.
Shirley enjoyed spending time with the family and her many friends. Celebrating birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, and holiday get-togethers was always a joyful time for her. Gene and Shirley purchased a home in Estes Park where they enjoyed spending time walking and hiking trails in Rocky Mountain National Park. They enjoyed get-togethers with family and friends in Estes Park for over 30 years.
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents and her husband Gene in 2016. She is survived by her daughter Joyce Bowland (Jamie) of Longmont; four sons: Jim (Heather) of Westminster, Gary of Longmont, Larry (Susan) of Broomfield, and Danny (Dawn) of Longmont. She is also survived by five grandchildren: Natasha (Luis), Brandon, Allyson, Tim (Christianna), and Michael (Rocky). She was fortunate to also have two great-grandsons: Eli and Matias.
Visitation will be held at Carroll-Lewellen Funeral Home on Wednesday, August 18 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. A private graveside service will take place at Mountain View Cemetery in Longmont. A Celebration of Shirley’s life will take place September 18 at the Heart of Longmont United Methodist Church at 2:00 p.m.
Memorials are requested to the music program at the Heart of Longmont or to Bristol Hospice, 3770 Puritan Way, Erie, CO 80516.
The family appreciates the support of friends and church members shown over the last several years. The Bristol Hospice associates were very supportive in caring for Shirley and the family appreciates their care and friendship.
