Mary M. Shireman, age 90, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away on Sunday, August 2, 2026, at Mount Carmel Bluffs Care Center in Dubuque, IA.

There will be no public visitation or services. Burial will be in East Dubuque Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be held later. 

The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is assisting the family.

Mary was born on February 13, 1936, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Thomas and Hilda (Altman) Smith. She married the love of her life, Harlan Shireman, in September 1953. They shared many years together until Harlan's passing on December 23, 1983.

Mary was employed as a cook in the kitchen at Mount Carmel Convent, where she took pride in preparing meals and serving others. In her free time, she enjoyed crocheting, sewing, and painting. She found great joy in creating beautiful handmade items for family and friends and treasured the time spent with those she loved.

Surviving is five children, Barry Shireman of Red Oak, TX, Douglas Shireman of East Dubuque, IL, Diane (Steve) Draper of Janesville, WI, Laura (Randy Williams) Schauer of Benton, WI, and Mike (Amy) Shireman of East Dubuque, IL; 16-grandchildren; 23-great-grandchildren; and her sister, Sandy Millman of St. Donatus, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Harlan; daughter, Brenda, two daughters-in-law, Brenda and Candy; and numerous brothers and sisters.

Mary’s family wishes to thank the nurses and staff at Ahva Living in East Dubuque, Mount Carmel Bluffs and Hospice of Dubuque for the loving care given to their mother.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.millerfhed.com©