Shirley Lucille Baxter

Shirley Lucille Baxter, age 90, of Lynden, Washington, passed away surrounded by family in her home on Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025. With hearts full of love and gratitude, we celebrate her life, a woman of kindness, laughter, and boundless generosity. She was born August 6, 1934, in Worthington, Ohio. Shirley embraced life with a spirit that shone as brightly as the greens and yellows of nature that she loved so much.

Shirley was the cherished wife of Ron, her high school sweetheart and husband for over 66 years. She was the proud mother and mother-in-law of Brenda (David) Dardzinski, Anne (Craig) Smith, Christine (Rick) Burroughs, the proud Grandma of Drew, Joseph, Nick, Caroline, Johanna, and Adam, and the equally proud great-grandma of Elliot. She adored her family and cherished watching her grandchildren grow. 

Shirley was a graduate of Bowling Green State University with a degree in Education. As a first-grade teacher, one of her greatest joys was teaching children to read, unlocking for them a lifelong love of words and learning.

Throughout her life, Shirley called many places home - Ohio, Pennsylvania, Kansas, and Washington. No matter where she lived, she immersed herself in her church and neighborhood, bringing warmth, hospitality, and a deep sense of community.

Shirley found delight in nature, particularly flowers, small critters, and her backyard crows. She was quick to laugh, often at herself, and carried a deep compassion for others. Her sense of wonder was contagious. Immersed in God’s presence, she trusted the inclusive power of Love.

Shirley was preceded in death by her precious parents, Ruben and Mildred Nelson, and treasured daughter, Brenda. She is survived by her beloved sister, Carolyn Smith, her husband, Ron, her daughters Anne and Christine, two nieces, and a host of grandkids, family, and friends who will carry forward her legacy of joy, laughter, and faith. She loved deeply, gave generously, and delighted in life. She was, and always will be, glorious.

Special thanks to the doctors, staff, and caregivers of Harborview Hospital and Whatcom Hospice for making her last days as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. We will miss her laughter, her warmth, and the way she made the world feel a little more like home.

A memorial service will be held at Sonlight Church, 8800 Bender Rd., Lynden, Washington, on Friday, March 28, 2025, at 3:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to Lighthouse Mission, Bellingham, WA, a cause near her heart.