Shirley Geist

Shirley Rose Geist, 79, of Herington, Kansas, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026. She was born on June 29, 1946, in Beloit, Kansas, to Eddie and Martha Hughes.

Shirley graduated from Downs High School in 1965, where she was a member of the majorettes and celebrated as a premier baton twirler. On July 10, 1965, she married Don Geist in Cawker City, Kansas. Together they raised two children, Jeff and Dena.

She dedicated 33 years of service to Agra Producers before retiring in 2012 and was a longtime member of St. John’s Evangelist Catholic Church in Herington. A passionate bowler, Shirley competed in tournaments with her sister Donna, carrying on a family tradition started by their mother, Martha. She took special pride in her achievements, particularly when she outscored her husband Don, and was a proud member of the 600 Bowling Club.

Known affectionately as the “Grandma with treats,” Shirley was a constant, cheerful presence at her son’s games and her granddaughters’ sporting events, always ready with snacks and encouragement. She enjoyed traveling, especially bowling trips with her sister, and most recently cherished a family journey to Las Vegas with her children and their spouses to celebrate her and Don’s 60th wedding anniversary. She also found quiet delight in occasional casino visits, returning with a smile that suggested she usually came out ahead.

Shirley is survived by her husband, Don; her son, Jeff (Janelle) Geist of Andale, Kansas; her daughter, Dena (Greg) Beatrice of Amelia, Virginia; and her sister, Donna (Jerry) Reid of Kansas City. She is also survived by five grandchildren: Jessica (Spencer) Eberle of Spearville, Kansas; Courtney Geist of Kechi, Kansas; Morgan Geist of Kansas City; Gavin Beatrice of San Antonio, Texas; and Ebby Beatrice of Arlington, Virginia; two great-grandchildren, Tatum Eberle and Jett Eberle; and two beloved grand-dogs, Monte Geist and Stella Geist. She was preceded in death by her parents, Eddie and Martha Hughes.