Shirley Ann Colson, 84 long time resident of Silver City, NM went to be the with The Lord and Savior, Sat. Feb. 18, 2017 in Atlanta, GA.

Shirley was the only daughter of George and Frances Crerar. She was born July 13, 1932 in Cleveland, OH where she was raised.

She met and married James Earl Colson, the love of her life and his better half. They married in August of 1954 and had been inseparable.

Shirley cherished her marriage and husband. Shirley and Jim enjoyed 62.5 wonderful years together and had three children - George, Bruce and Elizabeth, 4 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

In Shirley's day, she felt a woman had two career choices, nursing or teaching. Since she didn't warm up to the idea of bedpans, she decided early on she wanted to be a teacher and gave it her all. Shirley Ann earned her Bachelor's degree from Case Western Reserve and her Master's degree in teaching from Western New Mexico University. She put both degrees to excellent use.

Shirley dedicated 30 + years to the development and teaching of elementary school kids. She truly had a passion for teaching children. Most of her time teaching was spent at Sixth Street Elementary in Silver City. Shirley loved her service at Sixth Street and every child that crossed her path along with her colleagues.

Shirley can best be described as involved. Involved with her church, involved in school activities, involved with her neighbors, involved with anything her kids and family were into from: Boy scouts, Votress, Football, Brownies, Cross Country, Track and Field to Choir.

Shirley had a sweetness and kind way about her. She always spoke well of others and carried herself with grace.

Shirley Ann was a delight to be around and her memory will carry on in our hearts always.

Shirley was preceded in death by her loving mother and father, half sister Arlene Minch and many dear friends.

A remembrance was held in Atlanta, GA Feb. 25 and a memorial and celebration of her life will be held in Silver City at a date to be announced.