Shirley Ann France

Shirley Ann France, 79, of Corral, Idaho passed away unexpectedly Friday, May 18, 2018 surrounded by her family.

Shirley was born January 8, 1939 in Bliss, Idaho to Glen and Olah Graves.  She was youngest of five children and her childhood was spent in Bliss on the family farm.  She was a star basketball player at Bliss High School, honored as the top scoring player in the state one season.   Her passion for basketball remained with her throughout her life.

Her moves certainly caught the eye of Marvin France once they met on a blind date in 1956.  One year later to the day they were married and had a 55 year honeymoon of love, their joy extended by their children Teri, Ray and Clayton. 

Shirley was a woman with a strong faith, which she quietly showed to others through her actions of care, love and compassion.  She was known for her gentle kindness, quick with a smile and a warm hug to all she knew. 

She loved the majestic beauty of the Camas Prairie, always ready to grab her fishing pole in search of a big catch.  Her home was always open to all, from the large array of birdfeeders attracting all manner of winged creatures to the flocks of friends, family and former classmates that gathered for the many reunions held on their farm.

She was happiest when surrounded by her family, joining together in love, thanks and laughter.  She was an incredible cook and displayed her love to others through her delicious meals.  And to the end, she was never one to miss out on pulling a quick prank to surprise loved ones, always followed by laughter and an embrace.  

Shirley is survived by her sister, Peggy Morris of Twin Falls; three children: Teri (Ken) Backstrom of Corral, ID; Ray France of Palm Springs, CA; Clay France (Graham McReynolds) of Corral, ID; four grandchildren: Stephanie (Dan) Telford of Salmon, ID; Annika (Chuck) Ginsberg of Portland, OR; Grayce (Ben) Wagner of Corral ID; and Kayme Backstrom (Brian Parker) of Boise, ID; and six great-grandchildren:  Cameron, Connor, Kellon, Jack, Marvin and Henry.

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband Marvin France, with whom she is now reunited; parents, Glen and Olah Graves; brothers, Alvin Graves and Gene Graves; and sister, Erma Colter.

Visitation for family and friends will be held from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, Thursday, May 24, 2018 at Demaray Funeral Service — Gooding Chapel. 

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM, Friday, May 25 at the Fairfield Community Church in Fairfield.  A committal service will follow at 2:00 PM at Elmwood Cemetery in Gooding. 

The family asks that memorial donations be made to the Camas County Senior & Community Center, 129 Willow Avenue West, Fairfield, ID 83327.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Demaray Funeral Service — Gooding Chapel.  

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