Shirley Ruth Houghton

Shirley Ruth (McBeth) Houghton, born March 22, 1939 in Terrell, Texas, passed away on April 21, 2026 while living in Apache Junction, Arizona. She had recently relocated from Alabama to Arizona to be closer to her family, a move that brought her great joy in her final chapter.

She is survived by her loving, devoted husband of almost 60 years, Henry “Pete” Clarence Houghton Jr., and her children Pamela Schultz, David Schultz, Ernest “Michael” Schultz (preceded her in death), Wayne Houghton, Kathy Brandsma, Gina Ellis, and Tammy Bence. She was lovingly known as Grandma to 23 grandchildren, 32 great‑grandchildren, and 3 great‑great‑grandchildren.

Shirley loved shopping, decorating, traveling, genealogy, and collecting angels. She was especially known for her ever‑changing hair color — no one ever knew what shade she’d choose next — and for her bright smile and signature greeting of “Hey, Baby.” Her warmth and personality made everyone around her feel welcomed and loved.

A celebration of life dinner will be held on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Floridino’s in Chandler, Arizona. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Dementia Society of America.