Shirley Daleane Severson

Shirley Daleane Christopherson Severson, 89, passed away peacefully at her home in South Jordan, Utah, on November 15, 2025, surrounded by family. She was born on June 27, 1936, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Charles Christopherson and Erma Smith. On September 11, 1953, she married the love of her life, Kent Ray Severson, in Salt Lake City. They shared more than 61 years together before Kent’s passing on April 17, 2015.

Shirley grew up in the Salt Lake valley and graduated from Jordan High School. She later completed a surgical tech class, which helped pave the way for a long and meaningful career in healthcare. For over 25 years, she worked as a Department Manager in the Central Processing Unit at St. Mark’s Hospital, where her strong work ethic, practical wisdom, and calm presence were deeply appreciated by coworkers and staff. After retiring, she continued to pour her time and energy into the people she loved most: her family.

Shirley was the heart of a big family and embraced her role as matriarch with quiet strength and humor. She loved to travel, especially to places rich with history, and she cherished summers at their property dubbed “the Ranch” near Duchesne and winters in St. George. Some of her happiest memories were made outdoors—camping trips, long scenic drives, big breakfasts at the Ranch, and family BBQs at her home in South Jordan. She enjoyed reading, watching westerns, crocheting and other crafts, and was known for sharing practical advice, warm meals, and bringing the most sought-after baked goods at family holiday gatherings.

Her children and grandchildren remember her as kind, stubborn in all the best ways, funny, strong, motherly, wise, and down-to-earth. She had a way of making each person feel cared for and “looked after,” whether it was with a hot meal, a listening ear, or a straight-to-the-point bit of counsel that you knew came from love.

Shirley is survived by her children: Steve Severson, Tracie Ottaway, and Shauna Olsen; 12 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great-grandchild, as well as extended family and friends who will miss her dearly. She was preceded in death by her husband, Kent; her daughter, Sherry Hodges; her granddaughter, Feather Fife; her parents, Charles and Erma; and her siblings Larry, Charlie, La Rae, and Lamar, along with many beloved aunts, uncles, and in-laws who welcomed her home.

The family wishes to thank the hospice staff and caregivers who helped make Shirley’s final days peaceful and comfortable, and all those who called, visited, and prayed for her and her family.

A public viewing will be held on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. at Memorial Redwood Mortuary & Cemetery, 6500 South Redwood Road, West Jordan, Utah. The viewing and family prayer will take place in the viewing room, and a slideshow celebrating Shirley’s life will be playing in the chapel. Grandchildren and great-grandchildren who wish may create a small ornament and note to be placed in her casket.

At 11:00 a.m., a graveside funeral service will be held, with pallbearers accompanying her casket to the graveside. A canopy, chairs, and sound system will be provided as loved ones share memories and feelings. A final prayer will be offered before her casket is lowered into the vault and she is laid to rest beside her husband, Kent.