Jean Marie Shires

Jean Marie Shires, 62, passed away last Sunday, May 12, 2013. She was born in Red Oak, IA, but moved to AZ in 1962. She was a Verde Valley resident for the past 26 yrs.
She majored in Sociology, earning her Bachelors degree from ASU, and her Masters from NAU. She enjoyed teaching at Yavapai College and will be especially remembered for her Medical Terminology and Medical Transcription classes there. She also pioneered an internship program in which she prepared and mentored students who worked in the Medical Records department of Verde Valley Medical Center. She was passionate about preparing her students for a good career in Medical Transcription. Jean was quick-witted and entertained her students with her sense of humor in the classroom.
Jean was an amateur artist and especially loved to paint. She used oils as well as watercolors to create many beautiful paintings. She also sketched with pencil and charcoal, and occasionally dabbled in sculpting.
She had a great fondness for correct spelling, and loved to do crossword puzzles and proofread. And like her mother, Rilla, did not have patience with those who were sloppy in their spelling skills.
Jean was known for her love of laughter, and especially found children to be very entertaining. She was especially delighted to be a great Aunt to Landon, Laney, and Carter Shires.
Jean was preceded in death by her parents, Dick and Rilla Shires. She is survived by 2 brothers: Dan (Hui Suk) Shires of Albuquerque, and Sam (Madeline) Shires of Cottonwood. Survivors also include 4 nephews and 1 niece: Chris Shires of Chandler; Cory Shires of Atlanta, GA; Mitchell (Teesha) Shires of Albuquerque; Matthew (Briana) Shires of Cottonwood; and Lindsey Shires of Cottonwood.
A memorial service will be held at Mountain View United Methodist Church in Cottonwood on Sunday, May 19th, at 2:00 p.m.