Freeport – Shirley A. Ifert, 81 of Freeport passed away at home with her family at her side on Monday, February 20, 2023 after a brief illness.  She was born on January 24, 1942 in Milledgeville to Loyal and Alice (Sarber) Shilling.  She was the oldest of four children and she took that title seriously, always looking out for her siblings throughout her life.

She graduated from Lanark High School and attended Northern Illinois University.  She married the love of her life, Ray Ifert on January 28, 1978 in Rockton Illinois.  They were married for 33 years and built a wonderful life together. They dubbed each other Chief (Ray) and The Warden (Shirley).

Shirley never met another human she didn't like or love.  She was a friend to all and many especially at her beloved church, St. John United Church of Christ in Freeport.  She also attended the United Church of Christ in Delta, WI when her and Ray would spend summers in the Hayward, WI area at their cabin.  That cabin was their sanctuary and it held many special memories for them.

She loved nature of any kind and her cats were very special to her.  She was known to feed hummingbirds, chipmunks or any other critter that came into her midst.  Shirley had a contagious smile and positive sprit that would leave a lasting impression on your heart.  Shirley never spoke ill of anyone or anything in this world.  We should all try to be more like Shirley.

She is survived by her sisters, Julie (Harv) Walton of River Falls, WI and Donna (Guy) O'Donnell of Painesville, OH.  Her step-daughter, Julie (Greg) Munda of Freeport and her step son-in-law, Jon Staben of Freeport as well as several nieces, nephews and 3 step grandchildren and 8 step great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, and her brother, Johnnie Shilling and her step daughter, Cathy Staben.

There will be a visitation on Saturday., March 18th beginning at 10am at St John United Church of Christ in Freeport, IL.  The service will begin immediately afterwards at 11am, also at St. John UCC.

A memorial has been established in her name for St. John United Church of Christ in Freeport as well as the United Church of Christ in Delta, WI.  Condolences can be left for the family at www.walkermortuary.com .