Shirley Jean Stagg

Shirley Jean Stagg, 85, passed away Nov. 10, 2008 at her home in Carson City, Nevada with her eldest grandson at her side. Her daughter rushed from Reno to hold her hand and say goodbye.

Born Aug. 2, 1923 in Detroit, Mich. to Charles and Ethel Stagg, she was the second born of four children.

Shirley was an amazing woman. She stood only 5 foot tall and even when her little body was gnarled from arthritis and surgeries, she never stopped enjoying life. When they coined the phrase "dynamite comes in small packages", they must have been referring to her. Growing up in the 1930s during the Great Depression gave her a fortitude that was admirable. Although she had no formal education, she became successful at many endeavors in her life. She moved to Nevada from Southern California in 1972 to be closer to her daughter and her grandchildren.

During that time she owned a locksmith business and then a children's clothing and furniture store. Lastly, she obtained her real estate license and sold real estate for 20 years. After she retired she didn't slow down, but instead began to volunteer her services. She was the home mother for the State of Nevada, taking care of the mentally and physically handicapped. She also volunteered for 10 years as the receptionist at the Senior Center in Carson City.

Some of her favorite things were traveling to new and exciting places, tending to her plants, working on ceramics, going to garage sales, having lunch and playing Scrabble or putting together puzzles with her friends at the senior center, and of course, spending time with her family.

Shirley's passion for life inspired all that knew her. Her determination and strength were remarkable. All those who were fortunate enough to have known her will sorely miss her quick wit and sly smile. She will be remembered by her family for her love, humor and her giving spirit.

She is survived by her daughter Lynne Llewellyn of Reno; three grandchildren Kathleen (Mark) Schumacher of Reno, Larry Ronhovdee of Carson City, Erik (Wendy) Ronhovdee of Fairport, N.Y; one great grandchild Alex Schumacher of Reno; two sisters, Virginia Weaver of Colorado and Edith Mosher of California; seven nieces and nephews Kelly Parrish, Shannon Parrish, Valerie Addington, Linda Swift, Rick Smith, Nancy Smith, and Karen Morales.

A celebration of life will be 12:30 p.m., Jan. 8 at the Carson City Senior Center, 911 Beverly Drive. For more information please call Kathleen at 775-746-1964.