Shirley WILSON

January 26, 1936 - September 26, 2025



Spokane - Shirley Jean (Crocker) Wilson, 89, of Spokane, Washington, passed away peacefully on September 26, 2025. A beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Shirley will be remembered for her artistic spirit, her kind heart, her community volunteerism, and her zest for life.

Born on January 26, 1936, in Watertown, South Dakota, Shirley was the daughter of George E. and Frances I. (Preston) Crocker. She grew up in a Christian family, where devotion and hard work were a part of everyday life. Her love of art and beauty began early and only grew stronger with time - she had an uncanny ability to turn any ceramic, piece of fabric, or other medium into something extraordinary. Shirley met her husband, Elwood Wilson, in Watertown while he was home on leave from the Army. They were married shortly after. They had five children, David (Venee) Wilson, Toni (Dan) White, Dale (Debbie) Wilson, Terri (Alan) Pixlee, and Tina (Eric) Bjorklund. Shirley and Elwood were stationed in England and then all over the United States while he was in the Air Force; his last base being Fairchild AFB. At Fairchild, she designed and created several Armed Forces Parade floats, winning many awards for her efforts. After retirement the family moved into Spokane.

Shirley attended Spokane Falls Community College where she earned her Associate in Applied Science for Media Technician. During this time, she was blessed to meet and welcome into our family, her daughter, Tina (Will) Tanaka. She was also a founding member and president of C.O.P.S S.W. and served many years volunteering for this group. She also volunteered for many years for the Historic Cannon's Addition Community Development Neighborhood and the Spokane Interplayers Professional theatre. The family will always remember her love of music. Shirley loved to go to the Barrister's Winery with friends and dance!

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, George and Frances; husband, Elwood; her brother, Darrel; and her nephew, Ricky Crocker. She is succeeded by her brothers, Ronald (Shirley) Crocker, Michael (Ronda) Crocker, her six children, nephews and nieces, 19 grandchildren, and 27 great-grandchildren. She is also succeeded by her loving friend, Steve Powell, with whom she spent the last wonderful years of her life.

A Celebration of Life is planned for the spring.

The Wilson Family want to thank the Staff at Deaconess Hospital, South Hill Rehabilitation and Care Center, and Hospice of Spokane.

In lieu of flowers, please consider giving a memorial gift to Hospice of Spokane.