Shirley Marie Graham

Shirley Marie (Strachota) Graham 83, peacefully passed into everlasting life with her children at her side at dawn on February 15, 2024. Shirley was born and raised in Stratford, WI. She graduated from UW-Stout where she met and married the love of her life, Jack Graham. Shirley began her teaching career in Chippewa Falls, WI then moved on to hosting the local TV production of Romper Room as Miss Shirley. In addition to raising their family, Shirley taught for over 25 years in Bloomington and was inducted into the Bloomington Kennedy HS Fine Arts and Activities Hall of Fame in 1999. Shirley's greatest joy was her grandchildren; she placed a priority on supporting their dreams and college educations while also building their Christmas ornament collections. Each of them carry her legacy onward through their educational and professional achievements. A woman of strong faith, a vibrant spirit and social grace, Shirley loved spending time with family and friends. She treasured all aspects of life: summer vacations at the lake in Hayward, playing bridge, golfing, reading, gardening, walking and traveling. She inherited and passed on the Alvina Strachota shopping gene. Shirley was a lifelong advocate of women's rights. She supported several organizations including AAUW, St. Ed's and local DFL candidates. She is survived by her children Traci (Bill) McAlister and Trent (Jackie) Graham; grandchildren Shay (Jimi) McAlister Davis, Garret (Alaina Beauchamp) McAlister, Chase McAlister, George, Lauren, Evelyn and Johnny Graham; siblings Kathie Boyance, Jeannie Granius, Jim (LouAnn) Strachota, Tom Strachota and Jeff (Mary Anne) Strachota, nieces, nephews and many dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents Walter and Alvina, brother Peter, husband Jack, daughter Terri and numerous treasured cat companions throughout the years. Shirley's family would like to thank the many nurses and caregivers at The Moments in Lakeville and MN Hospice for their loving care of Shirley and support of her family. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday April 6, 2024 at St. Edward's Catholic Church, Bloomington MN at 11 AM with visitation one hour prior. In lieu of flowers the family requests those who wish to express sympathy consider making a donation to their favorite charity in Shirley's name

Tributes

Shirley Marie Graham

June 6, 1940 - February 15, 2024

Tributes

Shirley Marie Graham

June 6, 1940 - February 15, 2024

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