Shirley Mcclarty

On July 9, 1927, Shirley Elizabeth Kirkpatrick McClarty (Shy) was born to Ross and Rosemary Kirkpatrick, entering this world with a servant’s heart. Shy gained eternal life on March 9, 2023, passing peacefully on eagles wings into the arms of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Shy graduated from Flathead High School in 1944 and married her high school sweetheart, Elwood McClarty. Along with working side by side with Elwood in the McClarty Well Drilling business, she raised four children – Bill McClarty, Karin McClarty (Jeff Ammon), Gary McClarty (Mary) and Rob McClarty (Jana). As if that wasn’t enough, add 10 grandkids, 24 great grandkids as well as their spouses! Family joyful noise that she cherished so much!

Shy was a familiar face in the community! Always hard working with her mom Rose at the Temple Tea Room and Kirkpatrick Court, you might have met her at Montgomery Wards, Harmon’s, Hiway 2 West Motel and Elrod School (where she was known as the lunch lady!) An active member of St Matthew’s Church, she served her parish with love and devotion. In her spare time, she was a wiz with card games including bridge and pinochle Shirley was a remarkable woman known for her kind heart and selfless nature. She touched the lives of many through her generosity, kindness and infectious laugh!

Shirley is survived by her sister Barbara Roche, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. We will miss having the room brighten up with Shirley’s passing, however this beautiful wife, mom, daughter, sister and friend was able to join Elwood , Ross and Rose Kirkpatrick, Ted, Lois, , Mick, Helen, Kyrol and many other family members and lifelong friends. We are celebrating Shirley’s life this summer with the knowledge that she has gained her heavenly wings!

Buffalo Hill Funeral Home caring for the family.