Shirley was born on May 14, 1927, in Richfield, Utah to Terah and Elna Christensen Black. At nine months of age Shirley’s family moved to Salt Lake City, Salina, and Fillmore before returning to Richfield. Her siblings were Doyle, Lee Charles, Don J, Norma Deane and Elna Carolyn. Shirley graduated from Richfield High School in 1945 at the tail end of World War II. Shirley’s hardworking nature began herding cattle, babysitting, cleaning homes, plucking turkey feathers, driving laundry trucks, waiting tables and working at Fish Lake Lodge. After graduation, Shirley worked for the Salt Lake branch of the Ogden Arsenal. She met Ellis Egan Asay from Monroe, Utah and their first date was July 6, 1945 (75 years to the day that she died). They were married in the Manti Temple on December 19, 1945. They moved to Pocatello, Idaho until Ellis graduated from ISU with a degree in pharmacy. They then moved to Richfield where Ellis Doyle, Ken Black and Mickelyn were born. The family moved to Provo in 1954. Shirley got her beautician license in 1958 and established her own shop where she did hair until 2015, being the oldest practicing hairdresser in the state of Utah. David Carlos completed their family by arriving in 1959. Shirley and Ellis enjoyed traveling in their motorhome, gardening, and later served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as directors of the visitor’s center of the Los Angeles Temple from 1987-88. After Ellis passed away November 22, 1993, Shirley filled her time with service as Relief Society President of the Eastlake Care Center and an election judge. She loved going on cruises and seeing sights throughout the country. She continued to work in her salon, beautify her yard, and make chocolates until she moved to an apartment in Pleasant Grove in 2016. Throughout all stages of her life, she made and was surrounded by devoted and wonderful friends. Her favorite pastime was playing cards. She loved getting together with her family during holidays, especially July 4th. This year she had over 50 family members who came to wish her well as her valiant life came to a close. Shirley died at home on Monday, July 6, 2020. Her family wishes to thank Hearts for Hospice and Shirley’s granddaughter, Kim Conant, for their loving care.

She is survived by her children: Doyle (Diane), Ken (Joyce), Mickelyn, and David (Michelle); sister-in-law, Lila Merrill; 18 grandchildren, 55 great-grandchildren, and 12 great-great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her son-in-law, Leon Christensen; great-grandson, Westin Christensen; and great-great-grandson, Chance Drew.

Her graveside services will be held on Friday, July 10, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. at the Orem City Cemetery, 1520 North 800 East, Orem, Utah.

Due to COVID-19, social distancing will be observed so please bring a chair and an umbrella and help us celebrate this elect lady’s life. Condolences may be expressed at www.bergmortuary.com.