Shirley Cloud

As family and friends will certainly attest, Shirley Cloud truly understood the secret to a life lived to the very fullest, chasing after every adventure. Her determination was unwavering, and she found contentment in the simple joys of life each and every day. Shirley was happiest when surrounded by those she loved. She was always willing to go above and beyond to serve others in ways big and small, and her spirit of selflessness and generosity has touched the lives of so many. Dearly loved, Shirley will be greatly missed, and her memory will be carried on for many years to come.

Shirley’s story began with her parents, William and Telesfora (Wilczewski) Cloud of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Her father made a living as a butcher and meat cutter while her mother worked for Michigan Bell. Shirley Ann was one of two children in the Cloud family and was raised alongside her sister, Melissa. Their formative years were spent in their home at 843 Cherry Street SE in Grand Rapids. The family enjoyed vacations to Phoenix, Arizona, and Niagara Falls with their Grandma Lottie, forming many precious memories. Shirley was an active girl and loved playing softball. She was also a member of the Camp Fire Girls. Growing up, Shirley attended church at St. Andrew’s Cathedral. Her parents later joined Holy Spirit.

Throughout her childhood, Shirley attended local schools. She started out at Congress Elementary School, then moved on to Marywood Academy. After her high school graduation, Shirley had the opportunity to go on a trip to Washington, D.C., which would ignite her passion for travel. She went on to pursue further education at Michigan State University, then Western Michigan University for her MBA. Shirley spent the summer after her freshman year of college in London, getting a taste of international life.

In order to provide for herself, Shirley stepped into the workforce with a job as an information operator at Michigan Bell Telephone. She was then able to begin working in accounting at Booth Newspaper. Shirley’s solid work ethic served her well throughout her career. Even after retiring, she continued working part-time at Spectrum Hospital, now known as Corewell.

Shirley’s love for traveling and adventure took her all over the world. She was able to visit so many beautiful locations, including the UK, Italy, Iceland, Poland, China, Thailand, Nepal, Australia, New Zealand, Cuba, the Caribbean, Egypt, and Africa. Shirley loved all things Disney and Mickey Mouse, and she had quite the prized collection of stuffed toys and Disney water globes. She took plenty of photographs everywhere she went.

Around home, Shirley enjoyed staying active by golfing, bike riding, and playing tennis. She was an avid sports fan and liked cheering on the Detroit Tigers and the MSU Spartans. Shirley’s artistic talents shone through her many drawings and paintings. Her favorite music included Motown and tunes from the 70s, and she also loved music from the Temptations, the Four Tops, and Marvin Gaye. Shirley was a lifetime member of the Elk’s Club. Pizza was one of her favorite foods, and she enjoyed eating at Dog N Suds and elegant restaurants as well. In her free time, Shirley loved researching and studying English history.

As we gather to honor the life and legacy of Shirley Cloud, it is easy to see both her unwavering strength and her unconditional love for her parents, friends, pets, and her hobbies. She was a shining example of kindness, treating all those around her with compassion. Her insatiable zest for life was contagious, and she made the most of every moment she was given. Although life will never be the same without Shirley here, she leaves behind a priceless collection of memories that her friends and those who love her will forever hold close.

Shirley Cloud, of Grand Rapids MI, passed away December 6, 2025. Shirley is proceeded in death by her parents William and Teles Cloud.

Shirley is survived by her sister Melissa (Nicholas) Turner of Grand Rapids, MI, her niece and nephew Kjol (Heather) Turner and Kelci (Richard Self) Turner and her grand nieces and nephews Brooklyn, Callum and Case.

In alignment with Shirley’s wishes cremation has taken place. Shirley’s family will meet with friends for a bound voyage happy hour celebration on Friday May 8, 2026 from 3 - 5 PM at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home, Alt and Shawmut Chapel, 2120 Lake Michigan Drive NW Grand Rapids, MI 40504. Toleave a memory of Shirley or sign her quest book please visit www.heritagelifestory.com