Shirley Hargett

Shirley Ann (Tambke) Hargett, age 79 of Jefferson City, Mo., passed away Wednesday, July 2, 2025, in River City Living Community. She was a bright light in every life she touched-a woman with a fiery spirit, a generous heart, and a sparkle in her eye that matched her love of glittering Christmas lights.
Born on July 19, 1945, in Jefferson City, Missouri, Shirley was the daughter of Marvin Theron and Francis Elizabeth (Forck) Tambke. She graduated from Jefferson City High School and wasted no time jumping into a career of service. She became a paramedic for the state of Missouri, and her passion for helping others soon led her to become a trainer, where she mentored many in the emergency services field until her retirement in the 1980s.
Never one to stay in one place for too long, Shirley then traded Missouri's rolling hills for the bright lights of Las Vegas. From 1989 to 2003, she thrived as a realtor, enjoying the fast pace and endless possibilities that the city offered. But no matter where life took her, Shirley always brought with her a deep love for family, creativity, and the joy of celebration.
Shirley was married to James Goetz, and together they welcomed her daughter. Later, through a twist of fate and the wonders of the internet, Shirley found lasting love again with Chris Hargett. What began as a quick lunch date at Yen Ching turned into hours of conversation, laughter, and connection. From that moment on, the two were inseparable, finally making it official on June 24, 2022. Their love was full of adventure, joy, and unwavering companionship.
Shirley's creativity knew no bounds. She poured her heart into crafting, especially when it came to her Christmas creations. Her decorations were not just festive, they were magical. Every room in her house would shimmer with holiday spirit, and she proudly shared her handmade treasures at craft fairs. Christmas wasn't just a holiday to Shirley-it was a season of love, beauty, and celebration.
She adored animals and shared her life and love with her beloved dogs Casey, Mandy, and Abby. Whether it was camping at the lake (her version of "camping," anyway), cruising to new destinations, or enjoying Branson's best shows like The Baldknobbers and the Presleys Country Jubilee with Chris by her side, Shirley embraced life with open arms and an open heart.
Though she liked to say she was a country girl, Shirley's heart always beat a little faster in the big city. She had the soul of someone who knew how to enjoy life's glittering moments while still valuing the deep roots of home and family.
Shirley leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and light. She will be remembered for her fierce independence, her generous soul, and the way she made the world brighter just by being in it.
Survivors include her loving husband of the home, Chris, and her daughter, Sherri Schramm and husband Joseph of Jefferson City.
She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, James Tambke; and grandparents, William H. and Mildred (Saunier) Tambke.
A visitation to celebrate Shirley's life will be held from 4:00 pm until 6:00 pm, Thursday, July 10, 2025, in the Chapel of Freeman Mortuary.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to People Helping Paws, PO Box 6701, Jefferson City, MO 65102 or the Alzheimer's Association, 1601 E Broadway #245, Columbia, MO 65201.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary.