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Shirley Ilene (Driscoll) Perry, of Emmett, Idaho, passed away peacefully on December 15, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Shirley was born on October 22, 1936, in Letha, Idaho. She was the youngest in a large, close-knit family and continued that bond throughout her life in her relationships with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and life-long friends.
On August 9, 1958, Shirley married the love of her life, Alfred Perry, in Emmett. Together they raised three children and built a home filled with warmth, faith, and laughter.
Shirley devoted 24 years to teaching kindergarten at Butte View Elementary in Emmett, where she touched countless young lives, developing lifelong connections with co-teachers and former students.
Shirley is preceded in death by her beloved husband Alfred; her parents, William Patrick and Charlotte Zella Driscoll; and her 4 sisters and 4 brothers.
Shirley is survived by her children Beth Perry, Rena (Russ) VanPaepeghem, and Nathan (Diana) Perry; cherished grandchildren Patrick (Alyssa), Brenna, Emma, and Quentin; and great grandsons Emmett and Owen, all of whom brought her immense joy.
Services will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Emmett on Monday, December 29, 2025. A Rosary will begin at 10:30 AM, Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM followed by a luncheon in the church hall. Graveside services will be at 2:30 PM at the Emmett Cemetery.
In her final months, Shirley was cared for with great compassion by the teams at First Choice Hospice (Donald, Shiloe, Torri and Sydney), Truewood Assisted Living, and friends who continued to keep in touch with her. Her family extends their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made her days brighter.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to the Gem County Retired Educators, c/o Nancy Hyslop, 953 E. South Slope Road, Emmett, ID 83617—an organization that reflects Shirley’s lifelong dedication to education.
Shirley will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her faith and the strength she carried through every chapter of her life. Her legacy lives on in the many hearts she touched.
Arrangements are under the care of the Potter Funeral Chapel in Emmett.
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