Shirley Jean McMains, age 93, of Ephrata, Washington, passed away peacefully of natural causes on July 6, 2026, at the Garden Oasis Assisted Living Facility at Columbia Basin Hospital in Ephrata, Washington.

Born on June 17, 1933, in Lewiston, Idaho, Shirley was the beloved daughter of W.W. (Bud) and Goldie Greenough of Ephrata, Washington. As a pretty young woman, she won the Miss Ephrata pageant in 1951, and then became, a devoted wife and mother, as well as a faithful servant of God. She married her high school sweetheart, Dr. Paul E. "Gene" McMains, on September 14, 1952, in Ephrata, Washington. Theirs was a happy, adventure-filled marriage that lasted 67 years until Gene's passing in December 2019. Together they built a life centered on family, faith, and service to others.

For 60 years, Shirley made her home in the Tri-Cities, Washington, while Gene practiced dentistry. She worked alongside him as a trusted dental assistant and was a warm, active presence in their community. She served as a Cub Scout Den Mother, and dance team leader, pouring her heart into guiding young boys and girls and creating joyful memories for countless families. A steadfast Christian woman, Shirley faithfully attended the Church of Christ in both Pasco and Richland for many years, drawing strength and comfort from her deep relationship with the Lord.

After Gene's passing, Shirley returned to Ephrata, where she stayed close to cherished memories and family roots. She and Gene loved traveling the country to visit their children and grandchildren in their later years. They also shared many happy times camping throughout Washington, always finding joy in God's creation and in one another's company.

Shirley is survived by her three children, son James McMains, who has a daughter and son, and his wife Stella McMains of Shelley, Idaho, son Donald McMains and his wife Tami, who have 13 children, 12 grandchildren of Bellingham, Washington, and daughter Kathy Bradley of Spokane, Washington, who has three children and 10 grandchildren.

Shirley loved her 23 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.She enjoyed being a strong presence in each of their lives. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Gene, and her parents, Bud and Goldie Greenough.

Shirley's spirit of adventure, quiet grace, and unwavering love touched everyone who knew her. She will be remembered as a woman of deep faith and endless devotion to her family. Her legacy lives on through the generations she nurtured with love, wisdom, and the beautiful example of a well lived life.

A celebration of life will be held at the Ephrata Church of Christ on a date to be announced, immediately followed by burial beside her husband at Valley View Memorial Park in Soap Lake, Washington.