Shirlene (Blackett) Irvine

Born in Nephi, Utah, to Sarah (Wanda) and Robert Blackett. Preceded in death by her parents, siblings, Lamar, Vivian, Neldon and husband Bill. Shirlene moved to Salt Lake City and attended nursing school, earning her LPN. She worked in the hospital nursery taking care of her “little ones.” It was in Salt Lake that she met the dashing William Irvine, and her life would never be the same. Married for 67 years until Bill’s passing, Shirlene was a devoted wife. Due to Bill’s Air Force career, the pair travelled throughout the US and even lived in Pinner, England. The marriage produced two daughters, Crystal (Glen) Leon and Jamie (Danny) Riley, who joined them on their adventures across the map. When unable to join Bill at some postings, Shirlene was both mom and dad to the two girls. Originally very shy and reserved, Shirlene stepped out of her shell to make sure her girls grew up right and provide them a loving home. Returning home to SLC when Bill’s military career ended, Shirlene worked for OC Tanner, producing the many awards and pins the company was famous for.

But her job was not her calling. Shirlene lived for her family, making sure everyone was supported and wanted for nothing. Her girls gave her 6 grandchildren (Shane, Nicole, Steven, Brooke, Cheyanne and Chris), followed by 12 great-grandchildren (Denver, Caden, Carlee, Corbin, Emmy, Chayce, Cooper, Carson, Stevie, Sydney, Lazlo and Desmond), and, most recently, her first great-great-grandchild (JJ). Shirlene was most happy when spending time with her family. Whether making sure the fridge was stocked and dinner was on the table, or taking the grandchildren shopping. Her Thanksgiving dinners were legendary. Shirlene devoted her life to taking care of everyone else. The woman did not have a selfish bone in her body. She and Bill took many road trips throughout the Western US and also took family vacations with the kids and grandkids to places like Disneyland and Hawaii. And she never missed a dance performance or school event when the little ones were involved.

When Bill passed away, the family discovered Shirlene had been living with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease. As the disease progressed, Shirlene moved into Copper Creek Assisted Living, where she could get the care she needed. She resided there until her passing. Special thanks to the caregivers at Copper Creek and the folks at Ovation Hospice Care who helped Mom in her final months. You people are amazing at what you do, and the family could not have made it without you!

When the time comes, all that we have left are the memories. And Shirlene left us with plenty of happy memories to sustain us until we meet again. In lieu of flowers, call your mom and tell her you love her.

Those we love don’t go away

They walk beside us every day

Unseen, unheard, but always near

Still loved, still missed & very dear