Shirley Elizabeth McClarty, 95
Shirley Elizabeth McClarty, 95
Shirley "Shy" Elizabeth (Kirkpatrick) McClarty, 95, was born on July 9, 1927, to Ross and Rosemary Kirkpatrick. Entering this world with a servant’s heart she gained eternal life on March 9, 2023, passing peacefully on eagles wings into the arms of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
She graduated from Flathead High School in 1944, and married her high school sweetheart, Elwood McClarty.
Along with working side by side with Elwood in the McClarty Well Drilling business, she raised four children; Bill McClarty, Karin McClarty (Jeff Ammon), Gary McClarty (Mary) and Rob McClarty (Jana).
As if that wasn’t enough, add 10 grandkids, 24 great-grandkids, as well as their spouses. Family joyful noise that she cherished so much.
She was a familiar face in the community, always hard working with her mom Rose at the Temple Tea Room and Kirkpatrick Court. You might have met her at Montgomery Wards, Harmon’s, Hwy. 2 West Motel and Elrod School (where she was known as the lunch lady).
An active member of St Matthew’s Church, she served her parish with love and devotion. In her spare time, she was a wiz with card games including bridge and pinochle.
She was a remarkable woman known for her kind heart and selfless nature. She touched the lives of many through her generosity, kindness and infectious laugh.
She is survived by her sister, Barbara Roche; her children; grandchildren; and great-grandchildren.
We will miss having the room brighten up with her passing. However his beautiful wife, mom, daughter, sister and friend was able to join Elwood; Ross and Rose Kirkpatrick; Ted; Lois; Mick; Helen; Kyrol; and many other family members, and lifelong friends.
We are celebrating Shirley’s life this summer with the knowledge that she has gained her heavenly wings. A private family graveside service will be held at Conrad Cemetery.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, July 8, at Bitterroot Lake. With a memorial mass at 7 a.m. on Sunday, July 9, at St. Matthews Catholic Parish.
Friends are encouraged to visit our website at www.buffalohillfh.com to leave notes of condolences for the family. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the family.