Shirley J. Townsend, age 90, of Keokuk, Iowa, passed away on Friday, October 16, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.
Born in Downing, Missouri, to Leland and Irma McRobert, Shirley grew up with a deep appreciation for hard work and family traditions. She grew up in Memphis, Missouri, where she met the love of her life, Paul Townsend, during their high school years and married, sharing 70 wonderful years until her passing.
A devoted elementary school teacher, master gardener, wife, and mother, Shirley’s greatest joy was watching her family grow. She was an active member of her community and Trintiy United Methodist Church.
She is survived by her husband Paul, children Gregory (Tammy) Townsend and Trudith (Larry) Douglas, grandchildren, Matthew Douglas, Timothy Douglas, Trevor (Abby) Townsend, and Tyler (Cheyenne) Townsend, her beloved great-grandchildren Baylor Townsend and James Townsend, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers William McRobert and L.M. McRobert, and sister Ila McRobert.
Funeral services will be held at 12 pm (Noon) Saturday, October 24th, 2026, at DeJong-Printy Funeral Home in Keokuk, Iowa, with Rev. David Barrett officiating. Visitation will be held on Saturday from 10 am to 12 pm (Noon) directly before the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Shirley’s memory to Trinity United Methodist Church.
Memories and condolences may be left at www.printyfuneralhome.com.
DeJong-Printy Funeral Home of Keokuk is in charge of arrangements.
