Shirley Ann Epple

Shirley Ann Epple left this earth to join her Heavenly Father on the evening of July 4, 2026, at the age of 93.

Shirley was born in Pierre, South Dakota, on May 15,1933, the youngest of six children born to Lillian and Albert Miller. She lived on a farm in central South Dakota until age 12, when she moved with her family to Southern California. In 1950, she moved with her parents to Fort Morgan, Colorado, where she graduated from high school in 1951. Following graduation, she worked for five years as a dental assistant for Dr. Donald Tibbetts.

In 1955, she married Jim Messenger. Together they had three daughters: Kathleen, Kimberly and Jamis (Sam)

In 1988, Shirley married Russell Epple. Shirley and Russ enjoyed many years of traveling in their motorhome, spending winters in Arizona and making numerous summer trips to the Oregon coast, with several stops in between.

While residing in Fort Morgan, Shirley was an active member of the United Presbyterian Church, where she served as both an elder and deacon. She was an avid reader, especially of romance and mystery novels. She enjoyed playing games on her computer and spending time with friends and family.

Shirley had a quiet strength which inspired those who knew her. She will be remembered for her steadfast faith, her love of family and the humor and kindness she shared with everyone she met.

Shirley was preceded in death by her beloved husband Russell; her parents; and her brothers, Al, Jerry, Delmer and Raymond. She is survived by her brother Don; her three daughters; two grandsons, Kirk and Kevin; and many extended family members and dear friends.

Memorial contributions may be made to the United Presbyterian Church of Fort Morgan or the American Brain Tumor Association.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date.