In loving memory of Shirley Mae Lewis Ryan
October 12, 1929 – July 24, 2024
Shirley Mae Lewis Ryan was born on October 12, 1929 in Kingman, Ariz., to Horace A. Lewis and Nettie Robertson Lewis. At the age of 13, Shirley faced the tragic loss of her father in a boating accident on Lake Mead. America was still in the grips of the Depression and her mother became a single mom, but still managed to save enough to send Shirley to one year of college.
Shirley had a great love of animals which she passed to her children. During her high school years she had a large dog named Snoopy (we think Peanuts got the name from her). Snoopy defied all attempts of confinement and would be waiting for her when she got to school. When Shirley had to make a speech in class the dog would stand beside her for moral support.
On August 27, 1949, Shirley married the love of her life, Darwin C. Ryan, whom she had met when he was working on the demolition of the WWII aircraft in Kingman. They shared many joyous years together until his passing. Shirley is survived by her three loving children: Sheila (Warren) Bayard, Roxanne (Bob) Freiday and Casey (Elvia) Ryan. She leaves behind a legacy of love in her seven grandchildren: Justin, Candace, Miranda, Ryan, Cole, Alex and Eli as well as four great-grandchildren.
Shirley’s caring nature extended beyond her immediate family, as she embraced her adopted family, the Casson’s, after the passing of their mother. Throughout her life, Shirley dedicated herself to the education sector. Working as a secretary in the school systems of Cottonwood and Kingman. Serving at the Cottonwood Elementary School in Cottonwood, the District Office and Palo Christi School in Kingman.
The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to Joyce Standefur and the compassionate caregivers at White Cliffs Assisted Living Center for their exceptional care and support of Shirley.
Throughout her life, Shirley was actively involved in various community organizations, including the Daughters of the Pioneers, Kingman Cancer Care Unit, the Mohave Museum of History and Arts where she served on the board of directors, and the Hostess Club.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Mohave Museum of History and Arts or the Kingman Cancer Care Unit. Both organizations that held a very special place in Shirley’s heart. Shirley will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. May her legacy of love and service live on in the hearts of those she touched.
A celebration of Shirley’s life will take place on August 4, 2024 at 2 p.m. at the Kingman Elks Lodge at 900 Gates Ave., Kingman.
