June 23, 1935 – February 14, 2026
Shirley Mae York, beloved mother, grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully at Hospice Alliance in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin, on Saturday, February 14, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born on June 23, 1935, in Cass Lake, Minnesota, to Lawrence and Johanna (Werp) Godin, Shirley lived a life characterized by warmth, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to her loved ones.
Shirley was a 1953 graduate of Central High School in Superior, Wisconsin. On August 17, 1953, in Pilgrim Lutheran Church, Superior, she was united in marriage to her soulmate of 67 years, James R. York.
Shirley poured herself wholeheartedly into creating the kind of home and childhood she believed every child deserved. She showed up again and again in every way that mattered: leading, teaching, organizing, singing, encouraging, and guiding. To her children and to her community, she was a constant presence, a steady voice, and an open heart. If love could be measured in time, effort, and devotion, she gave it all and then some.
She is survived by her children, Lynda (Patrick) Ryan, Nancy (Steve) Alexander, and Roger (Mari) Hart-York. She leaves behind a legacy of love through her grandchildren, Kristin Raulin, Leo York, Nicole (Chris) Henderson, Matthew Alexander, Annalyssa Hart-York, and Ileana Hart-York; and her great-grandchildren, Riley, Kailey, Owen, Everett, and Arden. Each grandchild and great-grandchild carries a piece of Shirley’s spirit, reminding all of us of the life lessons she imparted and the love she exemplified.
Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, parents, brother, Arthur Godin, and sister, Jo Ann Paull.
In honoring Shirley’s remarkable life and the impact she had on all who knew her, a celebration of life will be held in the near future.
In lieu of flowers, memorial remembrances to Hospice Alliance Inc., 10220 Prairie Ridge Blvd, Pleasant Prairie, WI 53158 https://www.hospicealliance.org would be appreciated.
Though she has departed from this world, Shirley’s legacy will live on in the hearts she touched and the memories that will forever illuminate our lives. Rest in peace, dear Shirley; you will be dearly missed.
The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the staff at Library Terrace and Hospice Alliance.
