Shirley Crenshaw, 72

Shirley Kay Crenshaw was born Dec. 9, 1953, to Robert and Arline (Payne) Meador in Rochelle, Ill. She grew up in Rochelle and graduated from Rochelle Township High School. She went on to earn her degree as a licensed respiratory therapist.

Shirley moved to Montana to be closer to her sister, Carolyn Koontz, and continued her respiratory therapy career. While living in Livingston, Mont., she met David Crenshaw. The couple married in 1976 and were blessed with 50 years of marriage together.

Shirley and David made their home in St. Maries, Idaho, where she continued working at the local hospital until 1980, when they moved to Bozeman, Mont. In 1983, they moved to Spokane, Wash., where Shirley began what would become a remarkable career in the consumer products industry.

Driven, confident and exceptionally talented in business, Shirley worked her way through the industry and eventually became president and part-owner of Advantage Sales and Marketing. She had an extraordinary ability to connect with people, solve difficult business challenges and, as those who knew her would attest, sell just about anything to anyone. She earned numerous accolades throughout her career and the respect of countless colleagues along the way. In 1995, Shirley and David moved to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, and she retired in 2017.

Shirley may have been small in stature, but she was truly larger than life. She carried herself with confidence, energy and an unmistakable presence. She loved to laugh, tell stories, entertain and surround herself with friends and family, especially children. She was rarely seen without being beautifully put together and ready for whatever the day might bring.

Shirley could be tough, especially with the people she loved most, but beneath that toughness was an enormous heart. She never hesitated to tell those closest to her how much they meant to her. Many will forever hear Shirley saying, “I lova, lova, lova you.”

Shirley was a member of Fellowship Bible Church in Post Falls, Idaho, and was very active in volunteer work, including assisting the aging and supporting hospice. She enjoyed playing bridge, entertaining, spending time with friends and family, and, perhaps most of all, sharing a good story and a good laugh.

Following a decline in health, Shirley entered the care of Hospice of North Idaho. She died peacefully Saturday, Aug. 8, 2026, at the age of 72.

Shirley is lovingly remembered by her husband, David; her sister, Carolyn (Steve) Koontz; her three brothers, Rick (Carla), Jim and Phillip (Barb) Meador; her stepsister, Dr. Karen Thompson (Brian O’Donnell); stepbrother Alan (Sue) Thompson and many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Arline; stepfather Roger Thompson; and infant brother David.

Shirley’s larger-than-life personality, strength, laughter, stories and fierce love for her family and friends will be deeply missed and never forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Hospice of North Idaho.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Fellowship Bible Church, 1220 N. Idaho St., Post Falls, ID 83854. Arrangements are provided by Yates Funeral Home. An online registry of condolences is available through Yates Funeral Home at www.yatesfuneralhome.com.