Shirley Lee Edwards

SHIRLEY LEE EDWARDS February 22, 1929 ~ June 17, 2018 Shirley Edwards leaves a legacy of love of family, genuine compassion for those with disabilities, and endless generosity for anyone who needed her help. Born to James and Virginia Minnick in Crowell, Texas, Shirley grew up with her younger brother Jack on a horse ranch in Texas. Her love for animals and people was a natural born instinct which she carried throughout her life. During her teenage years, her mother, Virginia and grandmother, Catherine McCoy moved the family to Vancouver, Washington. On August 20, 1948, Shirley married James Richard Edwards. Their marriage lasted just short of 50 years with his passing on May 2, 1998. Shirley is survived by five children, Conni VanHoose of Shelton, WA, Becky Martin, Teri Edwards, Virginia Edwards and Rick Edwards of Vancouver, WA. She has nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Shirley Lee began her career working at Jantzen Mills in Vancouver, and later found her true passion being employed by the Vancouver School for the Blind as a house parent. During her career with the blind, she fell in love with a parentless blind/deaf young girl named "Beth Ann" and became her legal guardian for approximately ten years until Beth Ann was old enough to be placed in a group home situation where she would learn a life skill. Shirley would continue to make the four hour trip to visit Beth Ann on the weekends sharing her love and support for a very special young lady. One of Shirley's most cherished memories was working with Clark College students who were active in theater. She found an invigorating challenge in becoming the "prop lady" and traveling to second hand stores and antique shops to provide specially selected props for each new play performed by Clark College actors. Shirley will be immensely missed by her children, and extended family members. In her golden years, Shirley would love to reminisce of her travel and card games with her special group of women friends. There is new found comfort in knowing that she will no longer suffer, and that her passing was peaceful. A Family Memorial will held at a date to be determined this summer.

Shirley Lee Edwards

February 22, 1929 - June 17, 2018