Shirlee Ann Parini

Shirlee Ann Parini (Norbury) passed away on July 19, 2025 in Butte, Montana surrounded by love and the enduring strength that defined her life.  Born in Miles City, Montana on July 11 (no year will be listed) “As it is none of your business.” Shirlee lived a full life filled with grit, humor, and fierce devotion to those she held dear.

Shirlee’s early years were marked by frequent moves, but she carried fond memories of her time in Corvallis, MT and ultimately graduated from Anaconda High School. There will be no year listed as you will be able to figure out her age.  From a young age she demonstrated a strong work ethic and independence.  She worked uptown at F & W Grand where she handled ordering duties-an early sign of her no-nonsense approach and attention to detail. Later in life she applied those same skills as a bookkeeper for Beebe Grain. Her pride was her children whom she kept well fed and a spotless house right up to her death.  She is known for her baked bread and cinnamon rolls that she proudly shared with all.  She loved baking and made homemade fudge for her mailman every year at Christmas.

She was proudest of her role as a mother.  She had a 6th sense and always knew what they were up to.  She is survived by her beloved children: Russell Backstrom of Blythe, CA, Marti (Steve) Burke of Austin, MN, Shirlee Parini (Don Templin) of Laurel and Dana (Marty) Penrod of Miles City.  Grandchildren: Elizabeth (Kahlin) Holton of Phoenix, Az, Heather (Matt) Taylor of Blair, NE, Kelci (Travis) Swenson of Stewartville, MN, Rylee Penrod of Livingston, MT.  Tim Penrod of Miles City. Her pride in them was boundless, and she loved each one of them with unwavering intensity. 

She is also survived by her brother Merlin (Ellie) Norbury of Butte, dear friends Wayne and Brenda Worley of Billings, and longtime friend Frank Olenik of Butte, numerous nieces and nephews and great grandchildren: Cash Holton, Soren and Alera Swenson, Taylor Williams, Hayden Bradley.

She is preceded in death by her husband Ted Parini, the love of her life, her parents Roy and Edna Norbury, brothers and sister Virgil, Billy, and James Norbury, Agnes Bratten, nephew: Robert Bratten and grandson RC Backstrom.

A woman who never shied from speaking her mind, Shirlee was known for her tough exterior and unfiltered advice-whether you asked for it or not.  But beneath the grit was a heart capable of immense love.  If you were lucky enough to be loved by Shirlee, you knew it without question. She loved deeply and fiercely.

Her passions were simple but sincere.  She loved rodeos whether in person or on television and shopping at Walmart to catch up on the latest gossip and make new friends.  She also enjoyed her blackberry brandy “to help her sleep.”  Though not religious in the traditional sense, Shirlee was deeply spiritual and intuitive.  She prayed with conviction and faith.  

In the final chapter of her life, Shirlee faced cancer with courage and determination.  Her family extends heartfelt gratitude to Honey Bee Hospice and Beehive Homes for their exceptional care during this time. Their compassion brought comfort not only to Shirlee but also to those who stood beside her.  True to form Shirlee made sure they knew how much she appreciated them-she had nothing but praise for their kindness and even complimented the food.

Just a few weeks before her passing Shirlee attended a hula party that captured the essence of her spirit-joyful, bold and unapologetically herself.  Dressed in a hula skirt and shaking her booty with pride, she gave those around her one more memory filled with laughter and love.

Shirlee Ann Parini will be remembered for her strength, honesty, and above all else the deep love she gave to those around her.  May her memory bring comfort to all those who knew her.  

Shirlee did not want a service. If you would like to honor her please make a donation to Honeybee Hospice Angel Fund in Butte, MT or Justin Cowboy Crises Fund (email [email protected] or call [719] 528-4726 or a charity of your choice in her name.