Donald Ray Shirey

Donald Ray Shirey, 82, passed away on September 20, 2024 .

Donald was a short time resident of Shelley, & long time resident of Minden, Louisiana. 

Don was born in Camden, Arkansas on March 10, 1942 to Ray & Viola (Beckwith) Shirey. He has no siblings, but is survived by his daughter Anna Newman, son-in-law Jacob Newman. Also 3 granddaughters, Ava, Emma & Lyndie Newman & previous spouse Mary Shirey. 

Don was raised in Arkansas & Louisiana, graduating from Springhill High School, Springhill Louisiana in May 1962. He immediately enlisted in the Air Force after graduation. His military service was something he was always proud of. 

**Air Force 1962-1966 serving in Korea & France during peace time

**Army National Guard 1981-1983

**Air Force Reserves 1983-1988

Some of Don’s loves were

-Anything Southern related - he was from the South, loved the South & wanted everyone to guess where his accent was from!

-Our great country - Dons main choice for home decor, clothing or hats was flags of all sizes or anything to do with them. You may have even seen him pushing around a walker all decked out in red, white & blue. Anything patriotic was right up his alley & usually brought tears to his eyes. 

-Banana pudding or chocolate pie - really any sweet treat, but he requested those fairly often. 

-John Wayne & old western movies

-Vintage Cars - Don loved vintage cars & wandering around car shows when he got the chance. He often talked about his 1st car, 66 Dodge Charger, wishing that he still had it. He had an amazing knack for just looking at an old car & telling you make, model & year & he was right nearly every time!!

-Service to others - Don was proud of his time spent as a Mentor in the Youth Challenge Program in Louisiana as well as The Lion’s Club in Minden & the various projects & service they offered to the community. He even played Santa! Part of his service to others included remembering birthdays every year for his family members & many friends & acquaintances. 

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Thursday, September 26, 2024 at the Basalt Cemetery, 948 N Hwy 91, Shelley, Idaho. Arrangements are under the direction of Nalder Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to your local VA, American Legion or other service organizations for veterans in his honor.

Condolences may be posted here or sent to his daughter at the following address:

Anna Newman

849 E 800 N 

Shelley, Idaho

83274

Use this link to watch a tribute video for Don

https://youtu.be/HTFPE01GirA?si=g2EXLO_wF8ZXuov9

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