Shirley Ann Conway

Shirley Conway of Wales passed away on April 17, 2025, at AngelsGrace Hospice, at the age of 89.

Born on October 15, 1935, in Waukesha to Gwilym and Ruth (née Noble) Roberts, Shirley was raised in Wales on the family’s dairy farm. On April 23, 1957, she married George Conway at Jerusalem Presbyterian Church—her spiritual home both in childhood and again later in life when she and George returned to live in her family’s farmhouse.

From a young age, Shirley had a deep love for animals, especially horses. She spent countless hours reading about them, training them, and riding through the hills of Wales. Like her beloved horses, she navigated life with grace, grit, strength, and determination—qualities that sustained her through more than three decades of living with cancer. She faced this challenge without complaint, always putting others before herself.

Shirley’s legacy is one of unwavering faith, quiet strength, and boundless love for her family, community, and the simple joys of everyday life. She was, above all, devoted to those she loved, to serving others, and to doing good in the world. Her nearly 68-year marriage to George was a testament to enduring love and steadfast partnership. Together, they raised a family grounded in compassion, resilience, and the importance of showing up for others.

Shirley had a generous and compassionate spirit, and a deep commitment to service. She gave freely of her time and heart, making a lasting impact through her involvement with the Waukesha Elks Lodge #400, where she helped lead the Ladies Elk project providing essential kits to young adults transitioning out of foster care. She also found friendship and purpose through her Circle group at Good Shepard Trinity Presbyterian Church in Milwaukee. Professionally, she was known for her warmth, integrity, and dedication, notably in her role as a manager at Stones Jewelry Store.

She will be remembered for her nurturing presence and her love for the land’s bounty. Her family will forever cherish memories of berry picking, preserving, baking, and gathering around the table. Like her mother, Shirley valued family and the importance of bringing generations together—often in the kitchen and around the dinner table. No matter how large the gathering, there was always room for everyone. Visitors to the farm often found themselves joining George and Shirley as they cheered on the Milwaukee Brewers, Wisconsin Badgers, and Green Bay Packers, or playing a few hands of bridge.

Shirley is survived by her beloved husband, George Conway of Wales; their children: Scott (Carla) Conway of Arcadia, OK, Cynthia (Thomas) Green of North Freedom, WI, Joy (Andy Clark) Conway of Green Bay, WI, and Melissa (Michele Boyer) Conway of Minneapolis, MN; grandchildren: Angela, Brendon, Michelle, Deidre, Eleanor, Eva, Rose, Evan, and Ritu; and five cherished great-grandchildren: Isaiah, Isabelle, Lilah, Paisley, and Wylder.

She is also survived by her brother Hal Roberts of Wales; many loving nieces and nephews; extended family; and countless dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents Gwilym and Ruth Roberts, her brothers Jack and Don Roberts, and her beloved granddaughter, Ruthie.

A visitation and memorial service will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025, at Jerusalem Presbyterian Church, 207 W Main St, Wales, WI 53183. Visitation will take place from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 2:00 p.m. A luncheon and celebration of life will follow at the church. Interment will be at Salem Cemetery.

The Randle-Dable-Brisk Funeral Home has been entrusted with Shirley’s arrangements. Donations in Shirley’s memory may be made to: Jerusalem Presbyterian Church or the Waukesha Elks Club #400.

The family would like to thank the many friends and family who provided love, support and nurturance, the staff at ProHealth Oncology and Hospice who managed her care with compassion and diligence and AngelsGrace Hospice for making Shirley’s final days comfortable and peaceful.