Shirley Boone, wife of legendary singer Pat Boone, passed away on January 11, 2019, at the age of 84. Her death was caused by complications of vasculitis, a disease that inflames blood vessels. At the time of her passing, she was surrounded by her husband and their four daughters in their Beverly Hills home. Known for her deep faith, family devotion, and humanitarian work, Shirley left behind a rich legacy that touched countless lives.
Quick Bio Table of Shirley Lee Foley Boone
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Shirley Lee Foley Boone |
| Known As | Shirley Boone |
| Birth Date | April 24, 1934 |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Parents | Red Foley, Judy Martin (Eva Overstake) |
| Husband | Pat Boone (m. 1953–2019) |
| Children | Four daughters – Cherry, Lindy, Debby, Laury |
| Grandchildren | 16 |
| Great-grandchildren | At least 10 |
| Cause of Death | Complications of Vasculitis |
| Date of Death | January 11, 2019 |
| Age at Death | 84 |
| Known For | Humanitarian work, Faith, Family devotion |
Early Life and Family Roots
Shirley Boone was born as Shirley Lee Foley on April 24, 1934, in Chicago, Illinois. She was the daughter of two country music icons: Red Foley, one of the most popular country singers of the 1940s and 1950s, and Judy Martin (real name Eva Overstake). Growing up in a musical household, Shirley was exposed to the entertainment industry early on, but she kept her heart rooted in faith and family.
Marriage to Pat Boone
Shirley met Pat Boone while attending high school in Nashville, Tennessee. Their romance grew quickly, and at just 19 years old, she married Pat in November 1953. Their marriage lasted an impressive 65 years, one of Hollywood’s longest unions. During the early years, the couple lived in Teaneck, New Jersey, before eventually settling in Beverly Hills, where they raised their family.
A Life of Faith and Family
Faith played a central role in Pat and Shirley Boone’s marriage. Both devoted Christians, they guided their children with strong spiritual values. Together, they had four daughters Cherry, Lindy, Debby, and Laury. Their family eventually grew to 16 grandchildren and at least 10 great-grandchildren. The Boone family was often seen as a model of stability and faith in an entertainment world often marked by broken homes.
Career and Public Appearances
Although she was less in the spotlight than her husband, Shirley still had her own career. She wrote books, recorded songs, and appeared in TV programs with Pat Boone. Her most notable role, however, was being a supportive wife and mother. While Pat became a teen idol in the 1950s, Shirley stayed focused on raising their daughters and helping guide her husband’s career.
Humanitarian Work
In the late 1970s, Shirley took on humanitarian projects. She co-founded “Save the Refugee Fund,” which later evolved into Mercy Corps, now one of the world’s leading relief organizations. She also worked with the Boone Center for the Family at Pepperdine University, focusing on strengthening marriages and families through counseling and education. Her faith-driven service earned her respect far beyond Hollywood.
Cause of Death and Health Struggles
Shirley’s health began to decline less than a year before her death, when she was diagnosed with vasculitis. This disease causes inflammation of the blood vessels and can seriously damage organs. Despite treatment, her condition worsened, leading to her passing at age 84. The official statement confirmed her cause of death was complications from vasculitis.
Obituary and Funeral Service
Her obituary highlighted her devotion to faith, family, and humanitarian work. On February 21, 2019, a public memorial service was held at Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee, celebrating her life and legacy. Funeral arrangements were also associated with Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park & Mortuary in Los Angeles.
Personal Legacy
Shirley Boone is remembered for her compassion, humility, and strong marriage. For more than six decades, she stood beside Pat Boone, raising a family and dedicating herself to faith-driven service. Her work helped lay the foundation for international relief through Mercy Corps, and her contributions to Christian family counseling continue to guide people today.
FAQ About Shirley Boone
What did Shirley Boone pass away from?
She died from complications of vasculitis.
How old was Shirley Boone when she died?
She was 84 years old.
Is Shirley Boone still alive?
No, she passed away in 2019.
How many children did Pat and Shirley Boone have?
They had four daughters—Cherry, Lindy, Debby, and Laury.
Did Shirley Boone have grandchildren?
Yes, she had 16 grandchildren and at least 10 great-grandchildren.
When was Shirley Boone’s funeral?
Her memorial service was held on February 21, 2019, at Lipscomb University.
What was Shirley Boone’s connection to Mercy Corps?
She helped found Save the Refugee Fund, which later became Mercy Corps.
When did Shirley and Pat Boone marry?
They were married in November 1953 and stayed together until her death in 2019.
Was Shirley Boone linked to embezzlement accusations?
No. Reports about “Shirley Boone embezzlement” refer to a different person with the same name.
What movies or shows featured Shirley Boone?
While she appeared in TV programs with Pat Boone, she was mainly known for her writing, music, and humanitarian work.
Conclusion
Shirley Boone’s life was built on love, faith, and service. She will always be remembered as the devoted wife of Pat Boone, a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and a woman of strong Christian faith. Her work in humanitarian aid through Mercy Corps and her support for family education created a legacy that continues to influence people today.
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