Shirley Geist

Shirley Rose Geist, 79, of Herington, Kansas, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026. She was born June 29, 1946, in Beloit, Kansas, to Eddie and Martha Hughes.

Shirley attended Downs High School and graduated in 1965, where she was a member of the majorettes and known as a premier baton twirler. On July 10, 1965, she married Don Geist in Cawker City, Kansas. Together they welcomed two children, Jeff and Dena.

Shirley dedicated 33 years of service to Agra Producers before retiring in 2012. She was a member of St. John’s Evangelist Catholic Church in Herington.

A passionate bowler, Shirley frequently competed in tournaments alongside her sister, Donna, continuing a family tradition that began with their mother, Martha. She took great pride in her bowling achievements—especially when she managed to outscore her husband, Don. Shirley was a proud member of the 600 Bowling Club.

She was affectionately known as the “Grandma with treats,” always ready with snacks while cheering on her son’s teams or supporting her granddaughters at their sporting events. Shirley also enjoyed trips to the casino, though she never revealed whether she came home with winnings or losses. Judging by her smile and laughter, many suspected she was usually a winner.

Shirley loved traveling, especially bowling trips with her sister. Most recently, she enjoyed a special family trip to Las Vegas with her children and their spouses as they celebrated Shirley and Don’s 60th wedding anniversary.

She is survived by her husband, Don; her son, Jeff (Janelle) Geist of Andale, Kansas; her daughter, Dena (Greg) Beatrice of Amelia, Virginia; and her sister, Donna (Jerry) Reid of Kansas City. She is also survived by five grandchildren: Jessica (Spencer) Eberle of Spearville, Kansas; Courtney Geist of Kechi, Kansas; Morgan Geist of Kansas City; Gavin Beatrice of San Antonio, Texas; and Ebby Beatrice of Arlington, Virginia; two great-grandchildren, Tatum Eberle and Jett Eberle; and two beloved grand-dogs, Monte Geist and Stella Geist.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Eddie and Martha Hughes.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., followed by a rosary, on March 18, 2026, at Yazel-Megli Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on March 19, 2026, at St. John’s Evangelist Catholic Church in Herington.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Dickinson County Home Health and Hospice.