Shirley May (Oppenheimer) Whitehead

Our beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, Shirley Whitehead (91), went to her forever home in heaven on Sunday, February 12, 2023. She fought a very long and courageous battle with Alzheimer's. The disease robbed her of her memory, but thankfully it didn't take her sweet spirit, smile, and ability to show love to those around her.

Shirley was born in Albuquerque, NM on May 12, 1931, to Edward and Loretta Oppenheimer. She graduated from Albuquerque High School in 1948. Shirley loved being around people and was a part of many social clubs that included her passion for card games (especially bridge), gardening, bowling, golfing, and dancing. She loved to cook, but mainly when she had a house full of family to feed. But more than anything, her own sweet tooth made sure you never left her house without some sort of candy in your hand! She was the picture of beauty inside and out. With every challenge she faced, she always looked on the bright side, and all those around her couldn't help but share her positive perspective. Her love for Jesus and her family was evident, and all that knew her left her presence feeling joyful. We rejoice knowing that her battle on Earth is over, and she is finally experiencing her eternal victory because she knew Jesus as her Savior and lived a life loving others.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Sandy and Wyatt Skaalure; son and daughter-in-law, Randy and Pam Whitehead; daughter and son-in-law, Malinda and Andy Wieczorek; 8 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren who knew her as Grams; many nieces and nephews, and her sister, Lora Lee Anderson.

Shirley is preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Loretta Oppenheimer; the love of her life, Jerry Whitehead; her sister and best friend, Ella Rose MacGibbon; and great-granddaughter, Blair Nicole Schuelke.

Thank you to the wonderful people at La Vida Llena who so lovingly cared for her for many years.

Her family will celebrate her life with a Memorial service at a later date.