Shirley Ann McFarland

1936 - 2024

Visalia - Shirley (Gaspard) McFarland of Visalia, California passed away on June 15, 2024. She was 87 years old. Shirley was born in Sauk Centre, Minnesota in 1936 and moved out west to Burlington, Washington as a child with her family. Shirley attended Burlington Edison High School and graduated in 1954. During the summer of 1952 she was a contestant for Skagit County Fair Queen. As a young girl she worked at her parents' business selling crab and strawberries. She married Gene McFarland in 1955. They relocated often throughout the western states from Washington to Missouri as he worked for the Boeing Company. They were one of the many families, during the 60's & 70's, known as the Boeing Gypsies. They eventually settled in Mt. Vernon, Washington in 1973. Shirley is survived by her three children, Patricia McCarthy, Lisa Wood, Lloyd McFarland & his wife Michelle. Several grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Shirley was a homemaker and loved being a mother. Her true career was her family. She always put her children first and was a lovely lady who deserved much more than she would ever ask. She enjoyed yoga, ate healthy, cooked healthy and routinely made complete family meals at the set table for breakfast and dinner. As an empty nester she learned office skills, mixed with dear friends, and attended bible study. She is preceded in death by her husband Gene McFarland, parents Edward and Violet Gaspard, older brother Don Gaspard and younger brother Jim Gaspard, all of Washington. Many thanks to Park Visalia for their continued care and support as she lived there for several years. She loved playing cards and loved to play games with her children as they were growing up. She was loved so much and will be missed. Per the family's request no services will be held. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.evansmillerguinnchapel.com. Arrangements entrusted to Evans Miller Guinn Chapel.