Obituary of Shirley B. Hepler
Shirley Beebe Hepler, age 94, of Richmond, VA, and formerly of Geneseo, NY, for 67 years, passed into glory February 2, 2025. She was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, Paul Howard Hepler, her daughter, Holli Claire Bush, and her grandson, Luke Skaarup. She was also preceded in death by her parents, the late Lieutenant Colonel Clair S. Beebe and Maybert McLaughlin Tannehill, as well as her brother, Douglas Beebe.
Shirley is survived by her children, Eric (Kathryn) Hepler of Richmond, VA, Leah Hepler of Geneseo, NY, and Paula (Theodore) Skaarup of Walla Walla, WA. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Nathan (Martha) Hepler, Tara Hepler, Seth (Paige) Hepler, Adam Skaarup, Lucia Skaarup, Lin Skaarup and Lian Skaarup, as well as her great grandchildren, Evangeline, Oliver, Ezra, Solomon, Verity Mae, Noa Grace and Selah Therese. She is also survived by her sister, Sandra Colvin of Schulenburg, TX.
Shirley was born April 3, 1930, in Kalamazoo, Michigan. She took her BA from Western Michigan College, Kalamazoo, where she met Paul as they were completing their Art Education degrees. Shirley pursued her love of the arts throughout her life. She taught art classes and worked with various mediums. She was primarily known for her beautiful oil paintings but also created unique collage works from dismantled jewelry, designed and decorated interiors of detailed doll houses, and crafted household décor including lamps and intricate latch hooking. Those who were privileged to visit Paul and Shirley's "Hightower" will never forget the treasures and works of art throughout the beautiful Victorian home.
Shirley loved her family and especially enjoyed their camping trips when her children were growing up. Paul and Shirley were great partners in life and complimented each other in their work. Shirley's intelligent humor and extraordinary vocabulary were present to the end. Although those of us left behind are deeply saddened by this loss, we are grateful for Shirley's very full and, as she would say, productive life!
Calling hours will be held from 10 – 11:30 AM on Friday, March 14, 2025 at the Rector-Hicks Funeral Home, 111 Main St. in Geneseo where Funeral Services will follow visitation at 11:30 AM. Burial will be in Lakeview Cemetery in Groveland, NY.