Shirley Jean Eddy passed away peacefully on August 29, 2024, joining the love of her life, Bud, after a long and courageous battle with dementia. Shirley married Bud Eddy, and together they raised four beloved daughters. Though Bud was taken too soon, Shirley remained the steadfast matriarch of the Eddy clan.

Shirley had a deep love for life and her family, which she cherished above all else. With a heart dedicated to service, she believed in helping others and often dreamed of how she would give back if she ever won the lottery. Her life's mission was to help anyone in need.
Shirley and Bud shared many years working side by side at the Boone County Jail, where Bud served as the jail supervisor and Shirley as the cook. After her time at the jail, Shirley dedicated many more years to Kmart, where her strong work ethic earned her the nickname "Sarge."

A passionate advocate for youth, Shirley devoted countless hours to coaching girls' softball at the BYB, where she became more than just a coach to the many young players she mentored. Her commitment to children extended well beyond the softball field; she was a dedicated volunteer for CASA, advocating for children, working to ensure that every child had a safe and loving home.
Shirley's love for Christmas was unparalleled. It wasn't just about the joy of giving gifts, but the deep happiness she found in bringing her family together. The true spirit of the holiday for Shirley was in those cherished moments spent with loved ones, creating memories that would last a lifetime

Shirley Jean Eddy was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bud; cherished daughter, Sally; and dear granddaughter, Jessica. She is also predeceased by her brothers, Richard, Bob, and John, as well as her parents, and mother- and father-in-law. Shirley was also preceded by three special great-grandchildren: Anthony, Adrian, and Angelica.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Shirley's brother, Larry, for his unwavering friendship and support over the years. A special thank you also goes to her lifelong friends, Sandy and Margaret, for the countless laughs and shared memories.
Shirley's daughters would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Sanctuary Hospice and the dedicated nurses and CNAs for the loving care and support they provided to their mother.
Though Shirley is no longer with them, her family holds an abundance of cherished memories. These memories will be a source of comfort and strength in the days ahead as they navigate life without her.

"Remember me with a smile and a tear"

Shirley is survived by her loving daughters: Sue (Ed) Skrine, Sherry (Shelly) Eddy, and Shelly (Kevin) Bennett. She is also survived by her dear sister, Betty and brother Larry. Shirley leaves behind her cherished granddaughters: Jennifer (Kenny) Clifton, Jamie Effler, Stephanie (Lalo) Alvares, Stacey Foltz, and Kyle Bennett. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Nathan (Brooke) Loft, Makenzee (Owen) Wilcox, Jeric Trevino, Makayla Martinez, Rayley and Jake Effler, Ava Trevino, Adriana Alvares, Riley Clifton, Morgan (David) Wandell, Kenzie Clifton, and Jayceon Frazier, as well as her great-great-grandchildren: Bentley, Parker, Gracelyn, Landon, Mayleigh, Saylor, Dawson, Reid, Alana, Lucas, and Jacob. Shirley is also fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of service at noon, Thursday, September 5, 2024, at Anderson Funeral and Cremation Services, 218 W. Hurlbut Ave., Belvidere, IL 61008.  A graveside service will follow at Belvidere Cemetery. Rev. Dr. Allan R. Buss will officiate.

"In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to St Jude Children's Research Hospital"