Born in Omak and raised in Wenatchee, Shirley M. Farley passed away on 1/27/2008 at the age of 83. She left a legacy of service to her family and community. A nature enthusiast, she worked for the U.S. Forest Service as a young adult, was a lifetime fan of geology and botany, delighted in drives through the mountains and forests, and served on RIBCO, an early 1970s endeavor at watershed management.

She held a B.A. in Social/Political Science and an M.A. in Education/History from Whitman College and continued to promote education as a P.E. teacher, PTA officer and state lobbyist, Highline School Board member, supporter of Camp Waskowitz. and a member of the AAUW.

Shirley advocated for the mentally ill as a member of the Highline West Seattle Mental Health Board, assisted senior citizens in navigating the health care insurance system as a SHIBA volunteer and supported the arts, attending Seattle Opera for more than 30 years.

To the end she remained informed and vocal about public policy issues at all levels. Believing that service to civil society was a demonstration of God's love, she gave it her heart, mind, soul and strength.

Memorial Services will be Saturday, February 9, 2008, at 2 p.m. at Wesley Terrace Auditorium, Des Moines, phone 206 824-5000. Memorial gifts to any of the organizations mentioned above.