Shirley J. Coates

Shirley J. Coates, born on March 19, 1931, in Sioux City, Iowa, passed away on February 24, 2026, at Casa De Paz. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother whose warmth and humor touched the lives of everyone around her.

Shirley's life's journey began at the Armour Meat Packing Plant in 1952, where she met her husband, John Coates. The couple was married shortly thereafter, on July 19, 1952, at their home. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and treasured memories. Shirley was celebrated as a wonderful cook who found joy in preparing meals for her family, especially during the Christmas season when she delighted in decorating her home to create a festive atmosphere. She prided herself in having the best decorated tree around.

Shirley had a personality that was both funny and endearing, sometimes with a dark and twisted sense of humor that kept her loved ones smiling. She was quite the prankster as well. She enjoyed shopping and had a particular fondness for hunting for great finds at TJMaxx. An annual highlight for Shirley was her vacationing at Pocahontas Beach on Dead Lake in Minnesota with her family and floating carefree on the lake, a cherished tradition that she lovingly maintained for over 5 decades.

She is survived by her husband, John Coates; daughters, Jennifer McCoy and Carol Raby (Mark); daughter-in-law, Kathy Coates; grandchildren, Christopher Coates, Leila McCoy, Blake McCoy, Georgianna Raby, Wendy Raby, and Casey Scott; as well as 10 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Doris Blake, and her son, John (Jack) Coates.

A visitation in honor of Shirley will take place on March 6, 2026, from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM, followed by a memorial service at Meyer Brothers Morningside Chapel at 6200 Morningside Ave, Sioux City, IA 51106. The memorial service will begin at 11:30 AM and conclude at 12:30 PM.

Shirley J. Coates leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and fond memories that will be cherished by all who knew her.