Shirley served 22 years in the U.S. Army and retired in January 1975. He later studied at Pittsburg State University in Pittsburg, Kansas, earning a teaching degree. His career then spanned more than 22 years in the Iola school district, starting with 8th grade American history at Iola Junior High School and later moving into administration, including serving as principal. He also taught college courses at Allen Community College.
In addition to education, Shirley was active in local leadership, serving as a city commissioner and mayor for several years. He was also an avid supporter of the Iola Food Pantry and the Bowlus Fine Arts Center, and he enjoyed golf, travel, and cultural events. Shirley and Roberta “hosted” trips connected to their interest in the Bavaria region of Germany.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 26, at St. John Catholic Church in Iola, with inurnment following in Highland Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Iola Food Pantry or Bowlus Fine Arts Center.