BYRON – Shirley S. Hess, age 80, of Byron passed away at home on Wednesday, April 3, 2019. She was born in Rockford on July 15, 1938 the daughter of Charles and Fern (Martin) Sutton.
Shirley is a graduate of Pecatonica High School Class of 1956. She married Gary Hess on July 3, 1980 and was adored by her in-laws who she treated amazing. Shirley was an all-around wonderful woman who was a delight to be around. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who loved attending her grandchildren’s sporting events especially the Byron championship football team.
She was a member of the United Church of Byron and was once an active member of the Red Hat Society. Shirley was also a member of the Antique Automobile Club of America and the Early Ford V8 Club of America. She was an accomplished seamstress and fabulous cook. Shirley loved to raise dogs and was a truly darling person to anyone who knew her.
She is survived by her loving husband, Gary of Byron; children, Douglas Palmer of Byron and Charles Palmer of Calif.; stepchildren, Michael (Laura) Hess of Texas and Sheri (Jay) Holt of Naperville; and sisters, Charlotte (Clayton) Hunt of Ind., and Michelle (John) Kling of Byron and many grandchildren and great grandchildren.
She is preceded in death by her parents, in-laws, brothers James and Scott, daughter Penny, and stepdaughter Kelly.
Services will be scheduled for a later date. In lieu of flowers donations in Shirley’s name may be directed to Serenity Hospice and Home in Oregon. To leave an online condolence please visit www.farrellhollandgale.com
