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Shirley Ann Utter, 76, passed away on April 25, 2025 in Alamogordo, New Mexico. Shirley was surrounded by her loving husband and children in the days leading up to her death. Shirley was born July 1, 1948 in Galion, Ohio to the late Gerald Hessey and Bertha (Knipp) Hessey.
Shirley enjoyed being an artist as a painter, sketch artist, and making crafts. Shirley attended State Beauty Academy in Marion following graduation from Galion High School. She traveled the world with her husband Craig throughout his U.S. Army career. Shirley and Craig were married on July 6, 1968 in Columbus, Ohio.
Shirley is survived by her husband, Craig Utter; brother, William Thompson (Melissa); sister-in-law, Pamela Desjardins; brother-in-law, Douglas Utter (Nichole); son, Denny Utter (Mariah); daughter, Brandi Utter (Ted Harris); son, Mark Utter; ten grandchildren, several great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Shirley was preceded in death by her father, Gerald Hessey; mother, Bertha (Knipp) Hessey; Uncle Kenneth Tuttle; Aunt Margaret Tuttle; step father, Willis Thompson; sister, Joyce E Jenkins; brother, Kenneth E Thompson; and son Brian Utter.
A Celebration of Life will be held the first week of July at a location later to be determined.
The family has entrusted their loved one to the care of Scenic Chapel to direct the services.
