Shirlee Elizabeth Maihoff

In Loving Memory of Shirlee Maihoff

Shirlee Maihoff, an inspiring educator, adventurer, and cherished family member, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to touch the lives of many.

Shirlee grew up in Midlothian, Illinois. She was predeceased by her father, Herman William Maihoff, mother, Eleanor Ormet Maihoff, and sister, Nancy Ann Maihoff. Shirlee is survived by cousins, Terry, Joan, Janice, Bill, Joyce and James. She graduated from Valparaiso University in Indiana, where she studied physical education and biology, setting the foundation for a life dedicated to education and discovery.

Her teaching career began at Rich East High School in Illinois, where she taught physical education. Shirlee then embarked on an international chapter of her life, joining the Department of Defense Overseas Schools in Giessen, Germany. There, she expanded her teaching repertoire to include CPR and First Aid, while embracing the culture and beauty of Europe. She found joy in attending opera performances at the Giessen Opera House and live plays at Heidelberg Castle. Shirlee lived to snow ski, from the Matterhorn to any slope she could find. Skiing was an innate talent for her. The European journey inspired her to further her education, leading her to enroll at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), where she earned a Master's degree in Radiation Oncology.

At UAB, Shirlee's career flourished as she became a tenured Associate Professor and Director of the Educational Program for Radiation Therapists. Her contributions extended beyond the classroom-she played a key role in the development of the influential textbook "Principles and Practice of Radiation Therapy" and served as chair of the editorial review board for "Radiation Therapist" for five years. Shirlee's dedication to her field and her students was unparalleled, cementing her reputation as a leader in radiation therapy education.

Outside of her professional achievements, Shirlee was a member of First Methodist Church in Birmingham and found joy in travel and adventure. In 2022, she embarked on a memorable two-week journey to Ecuador, Peru, and the Galapagos Islands. Her trip included hiking through the Amazon jungle, boating on the Amazon River, exploring Machu Picchu, and even holding a sloth while visiting an indigenous tribe. Shirlee's curiosity and love for the natural world were evident throughout her travels.

Shirlee Maihoff's life was a testament to the power of education, exploration, and compassion. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered for the many lives she touched and the legacy she leaves behind.

Special gratitude to Brandi Pruett and the staff of

Covenant Woods in Gardendale, AL

Thankful for the care and support of Jimmy Johns,

DeJuana McCary and

Barbara Foshee

Celebration of life service will be on Sunday, June 22, 2025 at 3 PM at

First United Methodist Church

518 19th Street North

Birmingham, AL 35203

In honor and in Memory of Shirlee donations can be made to

Magic City Acceptance Center

3130 3rd Avenue South

Birmingham, Alabama 35233

or

https://donorbox.org/in-memory-of-shirlee-maihoff