Shirley Ann Farrow (née Bice), 87, of Tucumcari, passed away peacefully on April 28, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Shirley’s generous spirit and unwavering love enriched the lives of all who knew her.
Shirley was preceded in death by her beloved husband and best friend of 58 years, Alvan Edward “Pete” Farrow, who passed away in 2016. Their enduring love story began when they met and married in Santa Fe on June 27, 1958, and together they built a beautiful life centered on family and community.
Shirley leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory: her three sons, Douglas (Maria), Kurtis (Paula), and Kenny (Angela); two daughters, Debbie McGreal (Bob) and Karlene Mowles (Jim); ten grandchildren, Steven McGreal, Craig McGreal, Monica McGreal, Alexander Farrow, Timothy Farrow, Juliana Farrow-McClelland, Isabella Farrow, Matthew Farrow, Olivia Farrow, and Kaitlin Mowles; and six great-grandchildren, Peter McGreal, Philip McGreal, Henry McGreal, Audrey McGreal, Avery Farrow and Aiden Farrow.
Born in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Shirley was known for her warm heart, gentle strength, and unfailing kindness. After marrying Pete, she embraced life as a devoted wife and mother, creating a nurturing home filled with love as they moved through Santa Fe, Raton, Taos, and finally settled in Tucumcari. While Pete worked as a lineman for Mountain Bell, Shirley was the cornerstone of their family, supporting her husband and raising their five children with patience, wisdom, and boundless love.
Shirley’s greatest joy was her family, and she took immense pride in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She welcomed everyone into her home with open arms and delicious home-cooked meals that became legendary among family and friends. Her chili rellenos, chicken and dumplings, and chocolate cake will be remembered for generations to come.
A woman of quiet faith and remarkable resilience, Shirley faced life’s challenges with grace and maintained her infectious smile even through difficult times. After Pete’s retirement, she embraced their life on their small cattle ranch, where they spent their golden years enjoying the simplicity of country living and each other’s company.
In the nine years following Pete’s passing, Shirley continued to be the heart of the family, bringing everyone together for holidays and celebrations, preserving family traditions, and sharing stories of the past with younger generations.
Shirley and Pete’s love story continues beyond this life, and we find comfort knowing they are reunited once again.
Full obituary on Legacy.