Shirley Jean Looney

Shirley is survived by her husband Daniel Patrick, their son Brian Patrick, his daughters Zoey Grace and Phoebe Beatrice, their mother, Mandy; and their daughter Megan Jeanne Will, her children Isabelle Doughty and Oscar Daniel John, her son n-law James Doughty, Jr; and her sister Peggy Lynn Harris. She was preceded in death by her father Rudolph, her mother Anne Mary, and her sister Dixie Ann Chavez.

 She attended local schools, graduating from Wasson High School in 1970, during which she made many lifelong friendships. She attended UCCS and while working at the Vicon Instrument Company she met and eventually married (Daniel) Patrick Looney in 1973, after which she pursued a brief banking career. During her kids’ grade school years she was a stay-at-home Mom and the person whom the neighborhood kids could depend upon for help. Shirley was Megan's girl scout leader and Brian's cub scout assistant leader. She was always willing to volunteer her time. She was active in the Longfellow PTA. As her kids grew older, she worked part time in a jewelry store where she indulged her fondness for tiny shiny, colorful objects.

As Brian and Megan grew older, Shirley returned to work in Colorado Springs School District 11. At Doherty She worked with special needs children. She transferred to North Middle School in the counseling department as the support secretary.  She was the admissions clerk, dealt with special needs kids, parents, in-office suspension, was the locker lady and generally accomplished whatever was necessary. Shirley developed a love and dedication for this position that carried on for years. Students knew that she would be there for them anytime they needed her and developed a trusting bond with Shirley that was simply beautiful. Shirley also showed this kindness and grace at home with Brian, Megan, and their friends. She would enjoy a morning cup of coffee or dinner with their friends when Brian and Megan were not available. Shirley and Pat made sure that their house was always warm, welcoming, and open to any of Brian and Megan's friends if they needed a safe place to stay. Shirley often ran into former students and always recognized them. They would greet her with a hug and "Mrs. Looney how are you”?  She always asked what they were doing now.

Shirley retired from her education career in order to spoil her grandchildren. She was able to help care for and love Isabelle and Oscar at home. She and Pat often traveled to Arkansas to indulge Zoey and Phoebe. Her grandchildren were the center of her world. They knew they could call her for anything and often did. Shirley was known to take snacks to school if they forgot them or needed something for the classroom. She left pillow goodies when she returned home from Arkansas.

Shirley and Pat enjoyed traveling the world on cruise ships and tour buses. They enjoyed car vacations and day trips in the mountains. She said that vacations in Hawaii was money well spent. She enjoyed as much time with her sisters, sisters-in-law; and friends as she could. She also loved jewelry, shopping for antiques, reading books, westerns of all types, throwing legendary Thanksgiving dinners and the occasional penny slot machine. Shirley and Peggy would be found walking at Dixie's favorite park. She enjoyed weekends away with her cousins in the mountains and so much more. She was an avid - if not a 300 bowler.
Shirley leaves behind a legacy felt by so many and will be missed more than words can say.

Her memorial service will be held on October 17, 2025, at St. Paul's United Methodist Church located at 2111 Carlton Avenue, Colorado Springs, CO, 80909 at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, her family is requesting a donation be made to Pikes Peak Hospice – those folks were outstanding - or just sit back with a treat and take a minute to remember Shirley and enjoy time with their loved ones, as this was Shirley's favorite activity.