Shirley Barron

Shirley Jo (Dayharsh) Barron, 89, passed away peacefully at her home on October 10, 2025 in Howell, Michigan.

Born in Hart, Michigan, Shirley was the eldest child of the late Keith and Betty Dayharsh. As the oldest of four siblings, she took on the responsibility of helping care for her three younger brothers-an early sign of the nurturing spirit that would define her life. A gifted student and leader, Shirley graduated as valedictorian of Hart High School in 1954, where she served as drum major, played in the band, edited the school paper, and acted in multiple school plays.

That same year, Shirley was crowned Miss Oceana County and went on to be named runner-up in the 1954 Miss Michigan pageant.

She pursued her calling in nursing at the University of Michigan School of Nursing, earning her RN degree in 1958 and receiving an award for excellence in pediatric nursing. During her time at U of M, she was also a proud member of Alpha Delta Pi sorority. In 1955, she met the love of her life, Jerrold (Jerry) Barron, on a blind date. They were happily married until Jerry's passing in 2007.

Shirley enjoyed a diverse and impactful 35-year nursing career. She taught nursing at both the University of Michigan and Bronson Hospital in Kalamazoo and worked in intensive care and pediatric ICU. In 1968, she joined the health center at Kalamazoo College, where she eventually became Director of Health Services in 1982. In 1991, she was honored with the W. Hayden Ambrose Prize for extraordinary service as a college administrator. When asked what kind of nurse she was, she often replied with a smile, "A good one!"

After retiring in 1993, Shirley and Jerry moved to the Great Waters golf community in Eatonton, Georgia, where they made many cherished friendships. Shirley remained active in her community through involvement in P.E.O., the Newcomers Club, Plantation Ladies Club, Women's Golf Association, and as Great Waters Host Committee Chairperson and a Hospice Volunteer.

An avid reader and a lifelong sports enthusiast, Shirley was passionate about golf, University of Michigan football, and the Detroit Tigers, always keeping track of player stats and loving any chance to talk sports.

In 2016, Shirley returned to Michigan and made her home at Village Manor Retirement Community, where she lived until her passing.

She is survived by her four children; Dr. Kathlene Barron (Geoff Grow) of Santa Barbara, CA., David Barron (Andrea) and Micheal Barron (Becky) of Portage, MI., Julie Albring (Patrick) of Howell, MI.

She also leaves behind seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Shirley was a remarkable woman; funny, devoted, and endlessly generous. She often said she was a "born caregiver," and she proved it throughout her life. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

In accordance with her wishes, Shirley will be cremated. No memorial service is scheduled, but donations in her memory to the University of Michigan School of Nursing (umich.edu/nurs)

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Village Manor for creating a wonderful home for Shirley for the past 9 years and Abigail Hospice for the love and care they provided in her final days.