Shirley A. Garvey's Obituary
Shirley Ann Garvey, age 86, passed away in Whitehall, MI, on Sunday, January 11, 2026. Shirley was born in Muskegon, MI, on November 20, 1939, to Carl and Mary (Gabriel) Fresby. Shirley graduated from Muskegon High School and then went to cosmetology school. She spent most of her career as a self-employed cosmetologist, but also worked for some time as a sales clerk for Frank’s Nursery and as a leasing agent for Tiffany Woods Apartments. In 1958 she married Alan Garvey, and the two of them spent 62 wonderful years building their family together until he preceded her in death in 2020. Shirley loved spending time outside, especially golfing or working in her flower garden. She enjoyed bowling, collecting mouse figurines, and watching TV, especially game shows and Blue Bloods. She was a member at Saint James Catholic Church and enjoyed spending time playing Rummikub with a group of ladies there. She was a sweet woman who loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as her two beloved cats.
Shirley will be lovingly remembered by her three children: Lisa (David) Emig, Gina (Greg) Bulson, and Matt (Karen) Garvey; nine grandchildren: David (Allison) Emig, Derek Emig, Lindsay (Phil) Mixter, Greg (Katrina Belinger) Bulson Jr, Kate (Rick) Egeler, Nick (Tricia) Bulson, Brendan Garvey, Kaitlin Garvey, and Kara Garvey; special grandchild, Angie (John) Montalvo; 17 great-grandchildren; and two sisters: Sandy Kroll and Mitzi Shmidt. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband.
A MEMORIAL MASS will be taking place for Shirley and Alan at 10:00 AM on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at St. James Catholic Church, 5149 Dowling St, Montague, MI 49437, with a time of fellowship taking place afterwards. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation or to the Bellwether Harbor Animal Shelter. Arrangements have been entrusted to The Whitehall Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 816 S Mears, Whitehall, MI, 49461.
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