GILLETTE, Wyo. — Shirley Ann Spires Juby, born March 4, 1939, on the Spires homestead west of Hoisington, Kan., passed away peacefully surrounded by family, on Oct. 18, 2026, at Legacy in Gillette, Wyo.
Funeral service for Shirley will be at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2026, at Family Life Church with Marty Crump officiating.
Burial will follow in the Gillette Mt. Pisgah Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 26, 2026 at the Gillette Memorial Chapel.
Shirley was the daughter of Henry Cordrey and Maudie Anglin Spires and the 9th of ten children. All of the Spires children were raised on the family farm and attended a one-room schoolhouse. Music quickly became Shirley’s favorite subject, and she discovered early in life that she had a natural talent for it.
On March 24, 1957, Shirley married the love of her life, Rollin Gale Juby, beginning a devoted and joyful marriage that lasted 69 years. Together they welcomed four children, Tammy, Gayle Ann, Rollin, and Curtis. The family moved from Hoisington,
Kan. to Perry, Okla., before settling in Gillette in November 1972 when Gale was transferred for work. Their deep devotion to one another and their family was evident in every chapter of their lives. Gale and Shirley’s love was so strong, they recommitted their vows for their 50th anniversary.
Shirley became Gillette’s first home health aide, a role she cherished until health issues required her to step away. She was also well known as “the Avon Lady,” proudly selling Avon products for 37 years.
Shirley lived a remarkable life filled with devotion to her family. Not just her immediate family, but her extended family on her side and Gale’s side. Working hard keeping everyone in touch with each other all across the country. Holidays at the Juby home were legendary—she decorated for every season and every celebration, transforming the entire house. One of her favorite traditions was the annual Christmas tree decorating.
Summers were spent at the lake or in the mountains, enjoying boating, skiing, swimming, motorcycles, and camping. No matter the activity, the constant was family—those she adored most.
Shirley’s faith was unwavering and evident in every part of her life. She shared her love for Christ through teaching Sunday
School and Children’s Church for many years. She led the church choir, organized countless programs and plays, and expressed her musical gifts through piano and organ. Shirley was never one to sit still—she hosted Avon open houses, tended her garden, sewing, canned endlessly (often “extreme canning,” as her family lovingly called it), and poured her energy into every project she touched. She had a sharp wit, a warm sense of humor, and a firm but loving presence. Her compassion for others was extraordinary and deeply genuine.
Shirley is survived by her husband, Gale Juby; her brother, William Spires of WaKeeney, Kan.; her children Tammy Hoffman (Randy), Rollin Juby (Kathy), and Curtis Juby (Tracie), all of Gillette; 12 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings Briace
‘Sandy’ Spires (Jean), Nadine Beeman, Basil Griffin Jantz (Jess), Melba Maggard (Leroy), Twilla Brack (Ralph), Berniece Whitaker, Lavern Spires, and Clayton Spires (Linda); her daughter Gayle Ann Juby Bell; and her grandson Chad Bell.
The Juby family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Legacy and Stillwater Hospice for the exceptional care they provided to their beloved Shirley.
Memorials and condolences may be sent in care of Gillette Memorial Chapel, 210 West 5th Street, Gillette, WY 82716 or donations can be made to The Gideons International in remembrance of Shirley Ann Juby.
Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Oct. 24, 2026
