Shirley Ann Barrett

Shirley A. Barrett, 94, of Acme, Michigan passed away peacefully on July 13, 2026, under the loving care of Bay Ridge Assisted Living.

A life-long Michigander, Shirley was born in Detroit on February 22, 1932. She was the oldest of six siblings to Otto and Mary (Randazzo) Behrendt. Shirley graduated from both Wayne State University and the University of Michigan with degrees in Education, before teaching elementary school in the Detroit Public School system for ten years. Shirley met her husband Jerry (Gerald) on a college ski trip, and they were married in November 1956. Their loving marriage spanned nearly fifty years before Jerry’s passing in September 2006.

Shirley enjoyed a full and active life as a mother, wife and homemaker for many years. Shirley was regularly involved in numerous activities and leadership positions in homeowner associations, Welcome Wagon and the local Garden Clubs.

Shirley became a skilled basket maker and sold her baskets at many juried art shows in Michigan and Minnesota, with her trusty assistant Jerry by her side. Later in life Shirley volunteered her time at the Old Town Playhouse, developed many Red Hat friendships, and was a member of the Presbyterian Church of Traverse City. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, and cherished grandmother and friend, always willing to lend a hand, an ear, or an opinion.

Shirley is survived by her son Jeff and granddaughter Brielle; son Roger (Marcie) and grandsons Roger Jr. (Dania), Jacob (Ashley), Maxwell and Tyler; sister Mary Lou; and brother Robert (Theresa).

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband Jerry, parents Otto and Mary Behrendt, sister Joan Morrison, brothers Richard and John Behrendt.

Visitation will be held on Monday, July 20, 2026, from 10:00 AM until the time of the Funeral Service at 11:00 AM at the Presbyterian Church of Traverse City. Interment will follow at the Acme Township Cemetery.