Shirlie J. Watne, age 78 passed away at St. Peters Hospital October 17th, 2016. Shirlie was born on July 31st, 1938, to Tom and Barbara Hininger. She also shared her birthday with her big Sister Marlene. They were born 7 years apart. Just this past July they got to celebrate one more birthday together, at her daughter’s home. Shirlie attended school in Helena, and met her future husband, Richard C. Holt there. They were married on June 9th, 1956. This union produced three beautiful children, Tanya, Tom and Troy. Shirlie later again married John Watne in November 1973. All 5 of them moved into a small house with 3 dogs. There was a lot of noise, but a ton of love there. Shirlie had 37 wonderful years with John, before he passed away in 2010. They loved to camp, fish, and garden, explore antique stores and go to all the kids sporting events. Shirlie was an impressive softball pitcher in her younger days and she loved to watch her kids play. Shirlie spent a lot of years working for Mountain Bell and Quest. She retired in 1996, and this gave her a lot more time to lovingly care for parents. After her husband’s passing, Wednesday afternoons became very special. She loved to go with her longtime friends Jenny and Bernice to the Senior Center. There were many exciting games of Bingo and lots of good conversation and good meals. Shirlie had a deep and abiding love for the Lord. This got her through many hard times. She always said “There is nothing the Lord can’t get you through.” While Shirlie’s passing was swift and unexpected, she believed her next great adventure was ahead. Her family will miss her compassion, strength, generosity, awesome meals and steadfast love.
Shirlie is survived by her son, Thomas Holt (Darlene), daughter Tanya Douglas (Bob), big sister Marlene Rutherford, niece Roxanne Stewart (Jerry) and nephew Eric Rutherford (Jackie). There are also 11 beautiful grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. We want to say thank you to all her friends. She would want you all to know, not to be sad. To understand that she is with the Lord, and rejoicing being home after a long health struggle. Her life is over on Earth but she will be reborn in Heaven.
Per Shirlie’s request only a small private graveside service will be conducted.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
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James Mulcahy says
Rose and I send our deepest condolences to your family for you loss. Your family is in our prayers.
James and Rose Mulcahy
Joellen Hamm Barbagello says
So many memories and so much laughter. Our prayers are with you all.
Linda Pouliot says
Love and prayers to all of you from her favorite hairdresser 😉 I did Shirlie’s hair since the early 70s… we had so much fun …she loved her curly hair! She also was one of my first bosses at Ma Bell (in long distance) . We loved sharing stories monthly …I will miss her tremendously… what a classy lady. God bless all of you??
Sheri Wolf says
I will always remember Aunt Shirley, arriving early the next morning after Jack (Marshall) passed away. Blanche had so many things to do to prepare for Jack’s funeral. Aunt Shirley walked in the door, dressed up and looking so beautiful! She was a breath of fresh air for all of us who were mourning. She drove us anywhere that Blanche needed to go, and was truly a blessing for our family throughout the whole ordeal.
My love and prayers are with your family at this very sad time.
Sandy Bradford says
Tanya and family – heartfelt condolences in the loss of your Mom. Many wonderful memories of both she and John. What a fabulous cook! (and so are you!) Sending you a hug. Sandy Bradford
Rose Baker Hardman & family says
I was saddened to hear of Shirley’s passing. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.