Lori Shires

Lori Lynn (Crill) Shires, daughter of Donald Ellwood and Ruby June (Nelson) Crill, was born on September 7, 1959, in Corning, Iowa. Lori lived a life filled with love, kindness, and unwavering devotion to her family and community. Lori took the hand of Jesus on Thursday, July 9, 2026. Though her time here was far too short, her legacy of compassion and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Lori was born prematurely, weighing just four pounds. She shared a special bond with her brother, Greg, who was only ten months older, making them proud "Irish twins." As the youngest of three children, Lori was the cherished grand finale to her parents' family and enjoyed a remarkable relationship with both of them.

Faith was an important part of Lori's upbringing. Her family made church a priority, and she was an active member of Carl Methodist Church, where she especially loved attending Vacation Bible School. She often fondly recalled the family's annual fishing trips to Canada, memories she treasured throughout her life. Growing up on the family farm alongside two older brothers instilled in her a strong work ethic, determination, and independent spirit that would define her throughout her life.

Lori graduated as the Salutatorian and Homecoming Queen of the Prescott High School Class of 1978. A proud Prescott Eagle, she immersed herself in school activities, participating in choir, swing choir, and school plays. Friends often joked that the only trouble she ever found herself in was laughing a little too hard during choir practice. She was also an outstanding athlete known as “THOR”. She was an all-conference softball player and All American High School athlete for six-on-six girls' basketball, where she was known as one of the team's strongest defenders. Her remarkable strength allowed her to launch full-court passes from beneath her own basket to teammates waiting at the opposite end. Her love for athletics continued after high school as she became a dominant player on a women's recreational volleyball team.

Following graduation, Lori attended Northwest Missouri State University before beginning what would become an extraordinary career of public service. In 1979, she joined First Federal Savings Bank and Loan, where her warm smile, exceptional customer service, and genuine ability to connect with people made her a beloved teller for 34 years. In 2013, she accepted a position with the Adams County Treasurer's Office, beginning as a clerk before quickly advancing to Deputy Treasurer. Lori also took great pride in her time as the Clerk for Nodaway, Prescott and Carbon townships. In her free time, she served as the manager of the concession stand at the Adams County Speedway where she encouraged and supported many kids with their first job. Throughout her career, Lori took great pride in serving the residents of Adams County with kindness, connection, and professionalism. She reluctantly retired after 46 years of dedicated service, leaving behind countless friends and grateful customers whose lives she touched with her compassion and welcoming spirit.

On August 14, 1982, Lori married the love of her life, Darwin Shires. Together they built a beautiful life centered on faith, family, and unconditional love. They shared 38 years together before Darwin's passing. Their marriage truly embodied the vows of "for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health." Through every joy and every hardship, they faced life side by side.

Together they were blessed with three children: Heidi Lynn, Darci June, and Joey Donald. Lori never missed an opportunity to tell others how proud she was of her children. She was their biggest cheerleader, always ready to lend a helping hand, celebrate their accomplishments, or simply be there whenever they needed her. No matter how busy work became, she rarely missed her children's or grandchildren's activities.

Becoming "Nana" in 2009 was one of Lori's greatest joys. She adored each of her grandchildren and loved carrying on her mother's tradition of slipping each grandchild a $20 bill after every visit. Some of her happiest memories were made around her kitchen table, preparing large meals while the house filled with family, laughter, and conversation. She found her greatest happiness simply by making sure everyone else felt loved, cared for, and well-fed.

Lori's generous heart extended far beyond her own family. She faithfully served her community as a member of the Corning Booster Club while her children were in school, attended Corning Methodist Church and became an active member of the Woman's Club in 2014, serving one year as secretary. She never arrived empty-handed and was well known for bringing a delicious dessert wherever she went, as sweet treats were one of her specialties.

Lori never met a stranger. Whether helping a customer, encouraging a friend, or caring for her family, she made every person feel important. She possessed a beautiful heart, a servant's spirit, and a quiet strength that inspired everyone around her. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, treasured Nana, caring daughter, sister, aunt, and loyal friend. Her kindness, compassion, and selfless love will be remembered always.

Those left to cherish Lori's memory include her children: Heidi and Josh Webster of Maryville, Missouri, and their children, Crosby (10), Corby (9), Kiptyn (7), and Ruby June (1); Darci and Brandon Eaton of Lenox, and their children, Lilli (17), Mia (13), Paisley (9), and Cooper (7); and Joey Shires and special friend Kiah Cooper of Corning. She is also survived by brothers, Jeff (Martha) Crill of Prescott and Greg (Julie) Crill of Creston; Uncle Dick Nelson of Minnesota; mother-in-law, Jan Shires of Creston; along with countless nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, dear friends, and the many customers whose lives she touched over the years.

Lori was preceded in death by her beloved and ornery husband, Darwin Eugene Shires; her faithful parents, Donald and Ruby June Crill; her father-in-law, Myron Shires; her cherished grandmother, Merle Crill; her nephew, Lucas Sweeney; her great-niece, Ada Crill; her step-grandson, Austin Vais; her beloved granddog, Moxie; and many other treasured family members and loved ones.

Lori's greatest gift was the love she gave so freely. Her warmth, generosity, and unwavering devotion to those she loved created a legacy that will continue to live on through every life she touched. Though she will be deeply missed, her example reminds us that a life measured by kindness is a life beautifully lived.

Matthew 25:23-"Well done, good and faithful servant."

Funeral Services will be 1:00 PM, Tuesday, July 14, 2026 at Pearson Family Funeral Service & Cremation Center, Corning, Iowa, with Mr. Larry Johnson, officiating. Open Visitation will be 3:00 – 7:00 PM, with family receiving friends 4:00 – 7:00 PM, Monday, July 13, 2026 at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Carl Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the family, in Lori’s name, to be established. Memoires and on-lines condolences may be left at www.pearsonfuneralhomes.com.