Shirley J. Charlsen

Shirley J. Charlsen (née Stauffer), a cherished mother, grandmother, and beloved member of the Newton community, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2026, in Wichita, Kansas. Born on November 13, 1937, in Lawrence, Kansas, Shirley moved to Newton with her family in 1965. Shirley's life was a testament to love, dedication, and warmth that touched everyone fortunate enough to know her.

A woman of remarkable spirit and many talents, Shirley held numerous office positions throughout her career at Household Finance, Wood Supply, Steven Springs, and DMH. Later, she found joy working at Moffatt's Jewelry and Benton's Greenhouse, always bringing a thoughtful touch to her work. Beyond her professional achievements, Shirley was known for her exceptional baking skills—her mile-high peanut butter pies became a beloved tradition at family gatherings and community events alike. A gifted seamstress, she earned the grand-champion award at the Kansas State Fair during her high school years, a proud accomplishment that spoke to her creativity and skill.

Shirley’s devotion extended far beyond her career and hobbies. A long-time member of St. Matthew's Episcopal Church in Newton, she was affectionately known as a “kitchen angel,” frequently staying after services to visit with friends and nurture the close-knit church community she loved dearly. Shirley lived in Newton for over 60 years, including the last 22 years in her home on Kansas Rd. Her homes were a vibrant center for family celebrations, especially during Christmas. It was during these festive times that Shirley’s heart was fullest, surrounded by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even a great-great-granddaughter—a loving gathering that brought her immeasurable joy.

Her love of flowers and nature was evident in her green thumb and dedication to her expansive yard, which earned her the "Yard of the Year" award in 1998. Shirley maintained her two-plus acre yard, mowing it diligently until she was 86 years old—a testament to her enduring strength and zest for life. She cherished her friendships, often enjoying dining out and dancing with her close circle of friends, demonstrating her lively and spirited nature well into her later years.

Shirley's enduring legacy lives on through her surviving family, including her sons, Wesley Flory (Julie) of Halstead, and Kurt Flory (Cindy) of Weston, Massachusetts; daughters, Cyndi Flory Barnes of Valley Center, and Debbie Koerner (Joel) of Newton; her step-sons, Bill Charlsen (Charla) of Newton, and Tim Charlsen of Colorado; and her brother, Ronnie Stauffer of Baldwin City. She was also a proud grandmother to 17 grandchildren, a great-grandmother to 32 great-grandchildren, and a great-great-grandmother to one precious great-great-granddaughter. Sadly, she was preceded in death by her parents, George and Bonnie Stauffer; brothers, George Stauffer, Jr., and Robert Stauffer; and her devoted husband, Charles W. “Bud” Charlsen.

A visitation to celebrate Shirley’s life will be held on Friday, March 20, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Petersen Family Funeral Home in Newton, Kansas. Family will greet friends and visitors from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Her funeral service will be on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Matthew's Episcopal Church in Newton, with burial to follow at Greenwood Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Saint Matthew's Episcopal Church, or Caring Hands Humane Society, and may be left in the care of Petersen Funeral Home.

Shirley J. Charlsen’s life was a tapestry woven with love, laughter, dedication, and service. Her presence filled rooms and hearts alike, and her legacy of kindness and family devotion will continue to inspire all who knew her. To reflect this, her casket was made with love by her family members. We invite guests to wear cheerful colors, like Shirley frequently wore, to visitation and her funeral service to reflect her personality and love of nature. She will be deeply missed, but forever remembered as a beacon of warmth and joy to her family, friends, and community.