Shirley Ruth Howay, 75, of Maquoketa, died Monday, July 20, 2026, at Jackson Ridge Healthcare Center in Maquoketa. No formal services will be held. Shirley was born April 10, 1951, in Saginaw, MI, the daughter of James Thomas and Freida Josephine (Gaertner) Howay. 

Shirley was a devoted homemaker and later worked at Hy-Vee for 19 years, where she enjoyed handing out samples and visiting with customers. Her friendly smile and welcoming personality made her a familiar face to many. 

Shirley had a true green thumb and found great joy in caring for and nurturing her many houseplants. Her love of nature extended beyond her home through her volunteer work at the Mines of Spain Nature Center, where she generously shared her time and passion for the outdoors. 

Above all, Shirley cherished time with her family. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she treasured every moment spent making memories with them.

Survivors include her daughter, Amy L. (Kerry) Cone of Bellevue, IA; two grandchildren, Gabriel M. Cone of Oceanside, CA, and Michael A. Cone of Bellevue; siblings, Bev (Bob) Lumsden, Ross (Kris) Howay, Sue (Brian) Ferris, and Patty (Brian) Stark all of Saginaw, MI.

She was preceded in death by her parents.Memorials may be made to the Mines of Spain Nature Center.