Shirley Jo (Sloop) Mayhew

Shirley Jo (Sloop) Mayhew, 74, of East Jordan, died on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at Grandvue Medical Care Facility, East Jordan.

  She was born July 8, 1951, the daughter of Ray Henry and E. Joanne (Deming) Sloop in Petoskey, Michigan. 

  She grew up in Boyne City and graduated from Boyne City High School in 1969.

  Shirley was a CNA(Certified Nurses Aide) all her young life.  After her certification, she began her life caring for the elderly. She later went back to school and received her early childhood development degree. She enjoyed taking care of others and did it with the biggest heart.  She also worked in retail later in life although she worked most of her life with the elderly.

  She married Donald B. Mayhew   on December 23, 1971.  He preceded her in death  on November 20, 2008.

  She was a conisseur of horses, Breyer Festival and collectible horses. She adored horses and anything they were a part of especially the triple crown races and going to Kentucky to see the horse farms and festivals.  She also enjoyed country music specifically George Strait, Temu shopping, game shows, playing cards, The Young and the Restless and giving gifts and love.
  She loved generously, and was the epitome of loyal to those she loved the most. Relentlessly devoted Mother, Grandma, Daughter, Sister, Mother-in-law, Wife, Cousin, Niece, and friend to many.  She absolutely adored her grandchildren.

  Her memory was remarkable, despite her occasional self diagnosis of frequent forgetfulness, she could tell you stories of family and events and the endless family tree to the most minute detail. Occasionally she would put her own spin of embellishments on them, but nothing too far from the truth. She had a sweet tooth that was bequeathed to all she loved. The littlest items held sentimental value to no end. She kept everything, because you never knew when you or someone else might need it or want it. She loved bowling with her girls and the occasional round of golf. She also loved road trips and taking the longer route…”ridge riding” she’d say, stopping at garage sales and camping get aways.

  But most of all, she loved her family and closest friends, unconditionally. She was a simple lady, with an unparalleled heart of gold. The absolute best gift giver for every holiday, birthday, special occasion, or just because she was thinking of you. She was wealthy with love, and overjoyed giving it to all. 

    She is survived by three children, Casey  Mayhew of East Jordan, Cliff (Jamie) Mayhew of East Jordan and Corrie (Jason) South of Boyne City; 7 grandchildren; brother, Steve H. (Teresa “Teri”) Sloop of East Jordan; two sisters, Sandra (Mike) Simmons of Lansing and Sheila (Steve) Franke of Traverse City.

  A celebration of life service will be announced at a later date.

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