Shirley June Fouts, 90, died on June 25, 2025, at Azria Health Rose Vista in Woodbine. She was born on June 4, 1935, to Elwain and Nellie (Doidge) DeLance in Dunlap. She attended a one room county school through the 8th grade before attending Dunlap Community School where she graduated from high school in 1953. Shirley was very active in school activities as a cheerleader, yearbook staff, class secretary all four years, member of National Honor Society, musical groups, homecoming Queen and Salutatorian of her graduating class. She was eligible for four years of tuition at Luther College, but the stars had crossed with a guy that was soon to be her husband, Bob Fouts. They were united in marriage on Sept. 11, 1954. Through the years, they moved 33 times in 40 years. Shirley was a seamstress and also worked in Omaha for many years at Methodist where she got to ride to work every day with her favorite son-in-law, Mike Murphy.
Shirley was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church in Dunlap and was actively involved in the church and her community. She was a wonderful cook and could make a meal out of almost nothing. Shirley was quick to lend a listening ear or share a smile and found immense joy in visiting with people. Shirley especially cherished the time spent with family and grandchildren.
Shirley is preceded in death by her parents, and son-in-law, Michael Murphy. She is survived by her children, Cathy Murphy of Dunlap, Steve Fouts of Dunlap, Geoff Fouts and his wife Tracy of Council Bluffs, Ron Fouts and his wife Mary of Dunlap, Mike Fouts of Dunlap and Terry Fouts and his wife Shannon of Dunlap; 53 grandchildren, great and great-great-grandchildren who were all her “little darlings”; siblings, Ronald DeLance and his wife Kay and Raymond DeLance and his wife Cindy all of Florida; and many other relatives and friends.
“Momma, we love you more!”
A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Monday, June 30, 2025, at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Dunlap. Rev. Samuel Danso presided over the service. The honorary pallbearers were Glen DeTulleo and Chris Collins. The pallbearers were Matt Koski, Dave Elle, Tony Chase, Bobby Fouts, Jared Fouts, Cannon Elle, Brody Koski and Michael Davis. Shirley’s final resting place is at the Pleasant Hill Cemetery.
Fouts Funeral Home in Dunlap was in charge of arrangements. www.foutsfuneralhome.com
