Shirley Rose Carr Passman, 93, of Overland Park, Kansas, passed away Aug. 11, 2022.
She was born Sept. 30, 1928, to the late William and Ida Carr in Chicago, Illinois. She was predeceased by her husband, Ralph S. Passman; sister, Betty Grund; and brother, Abe Carr.
Shirley graduated from Paseo High School. Shortly thereafter, she traveled to New York to attend art school. Upon her arrival, she was notified that her mother had become quite ill. She opted to return to Kansas City to take care of her. She soon met the love of her life, Ralph S. Passman, on the front steps of the Jewish Community Center on Linwood Boulevard. Six weeks later, they were married, and they spent sixty beautiful years together before Ralph passed away in 2007.
Shirley enjoyed working alongside Ralph in his business. It was a true “family” business, and one they both were passionate about. They loved to travel with family, friends and business associates. Their favorite destinations were New Zealand, Australia, Belgium, the Ozarks and Mill Valley, California.
Shirley was an active member in many charitable organizations, some of which included Hadassah, Sisterhood, National Council of Jewish Women and B'nai B'rith. She was a longtime member of Congregations Ohev Sholom and Beth Shalom. She loved to play tennis and golf as a member of Meadowbrook Country Club. She was an avid reader and bridge player. One of her bridge groups played together for over 40 years. She was an amazing artist (emphasis on charcoal and pastels) and also loved to knit, sew, cook and watch sporting events.
In her later years, she enjoyed traveling with her daughter. She will mostly be remembered for her sense of humor and for the incredible, selfless person that she was. She lived her life caring for and nurturing others in a multitude of ways. She was loved by all and exemplified the true definition of kindness.
Shirley is survived by her daughter, Suzanne Passman; grandson Alan Passman (Liliya) of Tampa, Florida; great grandchildren Adam, Daniel and Ilina; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
Graveside service was held Aug. 14 at Mt. Carmel Cemetery, 5529 Ditzler Avenue, Raytown, MO.
Donations may be made to Compassion & Choices, Southern Poverty Law Center or a charity of one's choice.
Special thanks to Donald Cohen, her longtime physician, Kansas City Hospice and Ascend Hospice.
Online condolences for the family may be left at louismemorialchapel.com.
