Shirley Mae (Levine) Gaines passed away peacefully surrounded by family on March 4 at the remarkable age of 102.
She was born in Kansas City, Missouri, on Jan. 24, 1923, to Oscar and Hannah Levine. She was a lifelong Kansas City area resident.
Shirley became the Gaines family matriarch. She lived a life filled with love and laughter, and she orchestrated an endless stream of creative endeavors. She was the life of every party. In 1944, she married the love of her life, Jerome “Jerry” Milton Gaines, and together they built a beautiful life over 68 years of marriage. Their partnership was one of adventure, joy and unwavering support — a love story that stood the test of time.
A student of the Kansas City Art Institute, Shirley had a lifelong passion for the arts. Whether gardening, painting, performing or filling her home with music and laughter, she made life an art and incorporated her unique flair into everything she did. She was also a lover of theater and fashion. She was an extremely talented chef and gracious hostess whose artistic presentation of her cuisine made every gathering special.
Shirley and Jerry raised three wonderful children — Larry, Vicki and Margo — who joined them in countless family escapades, countless celebrations and business ventures, including notable Kansas City restaurants, where others could make memories as well.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jerry, and her siblings, Betty Linver and Melvin Lindsey. She was a loving grandmother to Todd, Amber, Jennifer (Ryan), Jacob, Jaron, Kerry (Kelsi), Kate (Brian), Christine (Ben) and nine great-grandchildren.
Shirley was a woman who made life vibrant, filling every room with laughter, every home with warmth and every gathering with love. When asked how she lived such a long life, she’d reply, “I just don’t worry!”
At 102, Shirley didn’t just live — she thrived. She truly won the lottery of life, and those lucky enough to know her hit the jackpot as well. Those whom she touched in her life will always remember her young-at-heart attitude, zest for life and twinkle in her expressive eyes.
A funeral service was held on March 7 at Mt. Moriah, Newcomer & Freeman Funeral Home to celebrate Shirley’s remarkable life. Burial followed at Mt. Moriah Cemetery South.
In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to Harvester's. Shirley’s presence will be deeply missed by all of her family and friends who loved her. May her memory be a blessing now and forever.