On Sunday, Dec. 3, 2023, Shirley Jean McDowell Evans died at the age of 92.
Shirley was born to Hershel and Ivy McDowell on Sept. 4, 1931, in Centralia, Washington. The family relocated to Vancouver, Washington, soon after her birth, and she lived her entire life in Southwestern Washington. She was living in Battle Ground at the time of her death.
Shirley was an avid horsewoman in her youth, known locally to have trained and ridden a blind mare for several years. Later in life, her primary occupation was writing, both for a local paper and several children’s books, and to document her ancestor’s history. She was a lifelong follower of Christ and, most recently, a member of Glenwood Community Church.
Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, Robert; her father, Hershel; mother, Ivy; and brother, Alvin. She is survived by sons Daniel and Rodney, plus numerous grandchildren (Jaime, Casey, Dustin, Lyndsey, Christina, Tracie and Jennifer). She left eight great-grandchildren, plus her daughters-in-law Peggy Tilgner and Aurea Evans, and a niece, Judy.
At Shirley’s request, there will be no public service or memorial. Her family will cherish the years they had with her and honor her memory privately.
