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Shirley Nelson Obituary
Surrounded by her loving husband, Phillip and daughters, Shirley Jean Nelson, of Eugene, passed away on June 30th from Leukemia, a resulting complication of breast cancer. She was 69 years old. She was born in Eugene, OR to Odell and Minnie Williams. Shirley attended Cottage Grove High School where she met Jerry Mitchell. They married and had 3 children: Valarie Fisher, Kelly Karr, and Jeff Mitchell of Eugene.
Shirley went on to earn her nursing degree from Lane Community College. She considered it a blessing and privilege to work with Dr. Randy Lewis in OB/GYN for 20 years at PeaceHealth. She especially enjoyed the lives and times that patients shared with her, the miracle of a newborn's first breath, and the many babies she held.
She married Phillip Nelson on February 16, 1979. They recently celebrated 30 years together. They enjoyed so much with each other, including traveling, camping, boating, and gardening. They treasured times together with their friends and family and had a special bond with a group of close friends who called themselves, "The Outbackers".
Shirley will be remembered for many things -- her love for God and others, her compassion without judgment, and kindness without pity. Shirley left many friends and family behind ? her husband Phillip Nelson; daughters: Valarie Fisher and Kelly Karr; son Jeff Mitchell; grandchildren: Katherine and Ricky Fisher, Kari and Dylan Karr, Joe and Lindsay Mitchell; 14 step-grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren.
Please join us for a celebration of Shirley's life to be held at her church, First Church of the Nazarene (8th & Madison), Eugene on Wednesday, July 8th at 1:00 p.m.
Cystic Fibrosis claimed the lives of Shirley's four siblings: Fred, Albert, Phyllis and Doris. Memorial contributions in her memory can be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Please sign the guest book at www.registerguard.com/legacy
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Shirley Nelson
5 Entries
Patsy Moser
July 11, 2009
To Shirley's Family,
I was fortunate to have Shirley as my nurse when we were pregnant w/our girls. That was and emotional time and she was incredible. During all of my visits over the 12-15years w/her she always talked about her family. YOU gave her so much pride and happiness. We would always catch up on what you guys were doing long before I got to meet any of you. I remember Shirley telling me about Kelly and that she was thinking of pharmacy as a career and her quizzing me about balance as a mom and working. Once again she settled down my confused emotions in trying to juggle young kids and work.
Shirley was a gift to many people. Take good care of each other as you move forward. We are very sad for you all and will miss Shriley. Patsy & Bob
Kerri Johnson
July 10, 2009
Val and Kelly, your Mom would be so proud of you. The service was beautiful. The grandchildren words were absolutely wonderful. Shirley will be missed by us all. We loved her so much.
Blake & Jennifer Walker (Race)
July 7, 2009
We wish to offer our sympathy to Kelly Karr and her family. We are so sorry for your loss.
May your treasured memories bring peace during this difficult time.
July 6, 2009
Shirley was a great lady who loved God and her family. We will miss her alot but know that she is free of pain and at peace. Hugs to all of you. Judy McCormick
Diane Gibson
July 6, 2009
Shirley was one of my mother-in-law's (Dixie Cochrane) dear friends and it breaks my heart to hear of her passing also. The few times I met Shirley she was so kind and full of love and I will never forget how helpful she was as we were taking care Dixie before her passing in May. She came to the house even though she wasn't feeling her best and spent time with Dixie which meant so much to all of us.
To her family, I am so sorry for your loss. Shirley was one of a kind and will be so missed.
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