Shirley (Stephenson) Nye

Shirley Jean Nye, 87, of Keokuk, passed away at 8:10 AM, Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at her daughter’s home in Belleville, Illinois.

Shirley was born March 27, 1936, the daughter of James and Bessie (Canada) Stephenson in Keokuk.  She was united in marriage to Arvest “Rocky” Nye February 23, 1961, in Kahoka, Missouri.  He preceded her in death November 12, 1997.  After attaining her associate degree, she worked as a supervisor at BTR in Keokuk for twenty-six years.  Shirley’s favorite hobby was quilting.

Shirley is survived by her children, Cheryl Higbee of Keokuk, Tina (Wayne) Warning of Fowler, Illinois, Tony (Denni) Nye of Parsons, Kansas, Susan “Sam” (John) Lawson of Belleville, Illinois, Abby (Lennie) Etter of Keokuk and Doris “Vanessa” (Donnie) Leimer of Rancho Palos Verde, California; forty-four grandchildren; and a multitude of great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Bessie; husband, Arvest; a son, Steve Nye; a daughter, Audrey Shaffer; and siblings, Charles, Jimmie and Margie.

Graveside service will be held at the Keokuk National Cemetery Friday March 1, 2024, at 1:00 pm.  An informal gathering of family and friends will be held at Lake Cooper Foundation Hall 810 Main Street Keokuk immediately following the services.