Shirley D. Hill, affectionately known as "Shirl the Girl", "Sweet Mama" and "Gaga," passed away peacefully at her home in Cheyenne, Wyoming, on January 28, 2026, in the company of her devoted husband of 52 years,  Eugene Hill, and her daughters. She was born on September 24, 1941, in Paxico, Kansas, on her family farm. Shirley lived a rich life full of love for her family and community.

When Shirley was a little girl, her parents, Vernard and Florence Davin, left the farm when Vernard took a job with the Union Pacific Railroad.  This landed the family in Medicine Bow, Wyoming where she completed her schooling in the small town.  Shirley was active in school as a drum major, cheerleader and a member of the girls basketball team.  Shirley had fond memories of Medicine Bow and met friends who remained her friends for many years after leaving.  She told the story of her daddy who said that he would see the men working on the Railroad and say "those guys are lucky, that's the life."  Later when he began working on the railroad, the other men would go past the farms and say "those farmers are lucky, that's the life!" 

Her life was marked by kindness and quiet grace. For many years, she worked in healthcare, where her gentle and caring nature endeared her to all she encountered. She will be remembered for her warm smile and the joy she brought to others. Her playful humor, genuine concern for people, and steady presence made her a source of comfort and light to family, friends, and everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Her family fondly remembers her as the queen of home cooking, whose kitchen was always filled with warmth and the aromas of delicious food. She also had a deep affection for animals; domestic and wild alike. There was never a hungry animal if she was around. Her enthusiasm for life extended to collecting antiques, especially railroad memorabilia and items relating to black history in the military, reflecting her appreciation for heritage and history. Shirley was a proud military wife who celebrated her husbands military accomplishments and decorated her home with red white and blue.  Shirley loved attending community events, whether it was Cheyenne Frontier Days, the farmer's market or a local food festival.  She especially enjoyed going with her family.

She is survived by by her husband, Eugene Hill, who describes her as the love of his life; daughters Marli Grider, Kristi (Chaney) Webber, and Bobbi Jean Cronberg (Kurt); grandchildren Kaylee (Cory) Morrow, Bryci (Matt) Achter, Brista Webber, and Chaney Webber; and seven great-grandchildren.

Shirley will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love and the warmth she shared will endure in the hearts of all who knew her.