Our beloved Shirley Rae Stithem Hager peacefully passed away on Sunday, September 8, 2024, at the age of 66.

Shirley was born on February 4, 1958, in WaKeeney, KS, and was baptized at Christ the King Catholic Church. As one of six children born to Bernice and Ray Stithem, Shirley attended WaKeeney Grade School and Trego Community High School, where she excelled in athletics.

Shirley's strong work ethic was evident early on as she began working at Trego WaKeeney State Bank as a senior in high school. Over her 40-year career, she loved interacting with the community and often went the extra mile for her customers, leaving behind a legacy of service and kindness.

Outside of work, Shirley was a loving wife and mother who attended her children's events and enjoyed the lake, horse shows, and sand dunes with her family, creating cherished memories together.

Shirley was also an exceptional cook, known for preparing an abundance of food for family gatherings. During holidays, she welcomed those who didn't have a place to go and prepared plates to be taken to those who were homebound.

Shirley is survived by her devoted husband, Tim; their beloved children, Jared (Jessica) Hager of WaKeeney, KS, and Ashley Hager of Manhattan, KS; granddaughter, Juliet Hager of WaKeeney, KS; father, Ray Stithem of WaKeeney, KS; siblings, Kay (Harry) Bennett of Gig Harbor, WA, Diane (Dave) Gross of Manhattan, KS, Rhonda (Randy) Schademann of Lawrence, KS, Rob (Anna) Stithem of Colby, KS, and Terry (Mary) Stithem of WaKeeney, KS; and many nieces and nephews. Preceding her in death were her mother, Bernice Stithem; her in-laws, Darrold and Jody Hager; and numerous other family members and friends.

Alzheimer's did not define Shirley's life; it was merely the final chapter of a life filled with love for her family and friends. Her love for George Strait music, Pepsi, and her granddaughter Juliet brought immense joy and was evident in her smile.

Her passing leaves a profound void in the lives of all those she touched. May she find her place among the stars, among the angels, and in God's loving care.

Memorial donations can be made payable to USD #208. Please include "TCHS Girls Sports" in the memo line. Donations may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N 12th Street, WaKeeney, KS 67672.

Memories and words of support may be shared with the family in the guestbook at www.schmittfuneral.com.

A visitation will be held at Schmitt Funeral Home, located at 336 N 12th St, WaKeeney, KS, on Thursday, September 12, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., with a Vigil Service beginning at 6:00 p.m., followed by a Rosary.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at Christ the King Catholic Church, located at 412 N 9th St, WaKeeney, KS, at 10:30 a.m., with interment following at WaKeeney City Cemetery.