Shirley Elaine (McCabe) Phelps

Shirley Phelps, 93, died peacefully in her sleep after a brief illness surrounded by her loving family at her home on January 23, 2012.



A native of Lompoc, California Shirley was born on October 27, 1918. Shirley was the third child of four born to Harry H. and Leelle (McAdam) McCabe. Growing up as a member of a pioneer family in a small town, Shirley knew all of its residences; many remained lifelong friends.



While attending Lompoc High School Shirley worked at the Lompoc Theater as an usher in the 1930's. Mr. Calvert gave her the job of being in charge of the Mickey Mouse Club at Saturday Matinees every week. While still working at the theater after graduating in June 1936 Shirley met the love of her life, Virgil Phelps. They were married February 17, 1939.



Shirley could often be seen working in her flower garden in front of the yellow house built by her husband Virg and his JM co-workers. She won many Beautification Awards over the years for her lovely garden. Her home has been a welcomed gathering site for over 60 years to so many family and friends.



Shirley was a very active member of the Lompoc Valley Historical Society, serving on the Board of Directors for many years. Preserving the history of Lompoc, its pioneer families, and stories of the early settlers had been a lifelong passion established by her mother, father and grandparents. She was very proud of being a Lompoc native and of her pioneer heritage.



Shirley was a member of the Lompoc Presbyterian Church for over 70 years. Shirley was a founding member of the Lompoc Hospital Auxiliary, Cotillion Dance Club, Lompoc High School Alumni Association and she was one of the last survivors of her Sewing Club.



Shirley leaves behind two sons Jon of Buellton, CA and Robert (Marsha) of Sisters, OR, four grandchildren Carrie Dew (J.R.), Jonny, Jen Ukrainetz (Mike), Thomas (Jazmine), and her four great-grandchildren, Dylan and Chase Dew, Brooke and Tyler Ukrainetz, two sisters-in-law Dorothy McCabe and Dee Silver. Shirley also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.



She was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years Virgil Phelps 1/20/1998, sister Gwendolyn McCollum, brothers Quintin and Bryce McCabe, and parents Harry and Leella McCabe.



The family would like to thank the ladies from Marian Hospice, Renee Boone, and Home Helpers Caregivers Maria, Lucy, Connie, Angelica and Maria for their kindness and compassion in their loving care of our Mother.



Service will be held Friday January 27, 2012 at 11:00am at Presbyterian Church, 1600 Berkeley Drive, Lompoc, CA. Arrangements are in the care of Starbuck-Lind Mortuary. www.starbucklind.com



Remembrances in lieu of flowers may be made to Lompoc Valley Historical Society, PO Box 88, Lompoc, CA 93438