Shirley Varni

Sept. 14, 1937 - August 25, 2018 San Jose, CA

Passed into Heaven in the early morning of August 25, 2018. Born in Fresno, CA, Shirley spent most of her young years in the greater Fresno area. Shirley graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1957. Shirley loved life enjoying bowling in several leagues, boating with her kids and on occasion modeling clothes for local clothing stores.

Shirley is preceded in death by her beloved husband Hal of 34 years. Shirley was devoted to her children Kelly Mathews (Rex), Traci Lancaster, Phil Varni (Brandy). Shirley simply adored her grandchildren, Michael, Nicholas, Matthew, Justine, Kyle, Brett, Travis, and her great-granddaughters Brianna Lancaster, Sophia Mathews and great grandson Brantley Varni.

Shirley and Hal moved to San Jose in 1976 where they resided until moving to Rough and Ready, CA in 1988. While enjoying the country, Shirley became involved with the Rough and Ready Fire Auxiliary supporting this local organization with Hal. A devoted catholic Shirley was active in the Young Ladies Institute (YLI) at Saint Patrick’s Parish in Grass Valley. She was an avid gardener growing roses, orchids and gardenias. When not in the garden or volunteering you would find Shirley travelling the world and cruising. Shirley was loved by all that knew her.

Viewing will begin on Friday, September 7 at 3:00 pm followed by a Vigil at 7:00 pm at Oak Hill Funeral Home’s Chapel of the Oaks. A Funeral Mass will be held at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 1200 Redmond Ave., San Jose on Saturday, September 8 at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations in Shirley’s name to Suncrest Hospice, 42808 Christy Street, Suite 216, Fremont, CA 94538.