Shirley May Neri

In Memory of Shirley May Neri

Born: December 27, 1929, | Passed Away: January 3, 2024

It is with a sense of both sorrow and gratitude that we share the news of the peaceful passing of Shirley May Neri at the age of 94. A remarkable lady who fully embraced life, Shirley, diagnosed with a sudden heart condition, spent her final moments in the comforting embrace of her home. Surrounded by loved ones, she had the time to bid farewells and passed peacefully just 12 hours later, with her daughter Sherrie by her side.

On a stormy winter night in Salt Lake City, Utah, Shirley came into this world, bringing with her a radiant light that would touch the lives of all who knew her. Born to Edward Charles Steiner and Anna Glauser, she was the fourth child among her five siblings.

Shirley's early years were marked by resilience and determination growing up during The Depression. She learned the value of hard work by becoming a full-time nanny and picking and selling watercress to help support her family. As a teenager, she reveled in the joy of dancing and swimming in the local canal with her beloved sister.

In 1947, at the age of 17, Shirley married Guy Mallory, wasting no time in embarking on a journey together. They swiftly relocated to Southern California, settling in Pasadena and later establishing their home in La Habra, California.

A woman of immeasurable beauty, Shirley ventured into the world of modeling before finding her true calling as a sales agent for Mattel. Her passion and dedication led her to become a representative for collectible dolls, traveling to trade shows in glittering cities such as Las Vegas and New York. Her success was so remarkable that a Barbie doll was created in her honor, a testament to her grace and elegance.

But beyond her accomplishments, Shirley's most cherished role was that of a devoted mother. From the moment her daughter, Sherrie DeAnn, entered her life, Shirley's world revolved around loving, nurturing, and supporting her with unwavering devotion. As the years passed, and Sherrie became a mother herself, Shirley's love expanded to include her adored grandchildren whom she referred to as her “Hearts”.

In 1992, Shirley and Joseph Neri wed in Salt Lake City. Joe embraced his role in Shirley's life, offering endearing support to Sherrie, Reg, and their children. After Shirley's retirement, they settled in St. George, Utah, fostering lasting friendships within the Green Springs community. The wives, including Shirley, formed a close sisterhood, bonding over weekly card games and supporting each other through life's challenges. In 2005, Shirley and Joe were sealed in the St. George Utah Temple for time and all eternity.

Guided by her faith, Shirley was an active member of the LDS church. As the years passed on, she continued to find purpose and joy in serving her neighbors both within and outside her church community. For Shirley, tending to the birds that flocked to her yard every evening at 5pm became a cherished daily ritual, a small act of kindness that embodied her tender heart.

Shirley is survived by her daughter Sherrie (Reg) Pendleton, sister LaRene Anne Edgar, and brother Dennis K (Judy) Steiner. She has 5 Grandchildren, 18 Great-Grandchildren and one Great-Great-Granddaughter. Shirley is preceded in death by her sister, Nancy Lee Moore; father, Edward Charles Steiner; mother, Anne Steiner; brothers Charles Edward Steiner and Harry Albert (LaRue) Steiner; brother-in-law Frank Bryce Edgar; husband, Guy Marlin Mallory; daughter, Michelle Mallory; husband, Joseph Neri; and great-granddaughter, Sybil Wren Sarager.

As we bid farewell to this iconic lady, we will gather to celebrate Shirley's life and legacy on Saturday, January 13, at the LDS Church, 1080 W Arlington Street, Washington, Utah 84780. A viewing will be from 10:30 to 11:30 am. The Funeral will begin at Noon. Interment will be on Tuesday, January 16th at Noon where she will be laid to rest next to her sweetheart, “Josie”, in the Memorial Mountain View Cemetery, 3115 Bengal Blvd, Cottonwood Heights, Utah 84121.

Arrangements have been thoughtfully made through Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff Street, St. George, Utah, 435-673-2454. Floral tributes will be provided by Patches of Iris and Violets.

Shirley May Neri's legacy will forever live on in the heart of her daughter, Sherrie, and all who were fortunate enough to know her. As we gather to bid her farewell, let us remember her as a beacon of love, a shining example of resilience, and a treasure who enriched the lives of all who knew her.

Family and friends are invited to sign Shirley’s online guest book at www.spilsburymortuary.com