Shirley Garwood

Dates

Obituary

Shirley Garwood, 92, of Brookings, SD, formerly of Dakota Dunes, SD, passed away Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at The Neighborhoods at Brookview in Brookings, SD. Funeral services will be at 10:30 AM Tuesday, August 12, at Bittner Funeral Chapel.

Shirley Beatrice Garwood was born March 19, 1933, to Elmer and Margaret (Murphy) Ring in Walthill, NE. Shirley grew up on the family farm near Walthill, where she also attended school with her brother and two older sisters.

Shirley married the love of her life and high school sweetheart, Judson Garwood, on September 8, 1950, in Walthill. Together, they raised three children and celebrated 69 years of marriage until Judson’s passing in 2020 at the age of 87. After their two older kids were out of school, they moved with their youngest daughter to Honey Creek, IA, where they built a home on 30 acres and started a Christmas Tree business for over 30 years, Garwood Tree Farm. Shirley and Judson wintered in South Padre Island, TX for many years and were blessed to travel extensively, including Russia, China, England, Ireland, and Germany.

Shirley loved her family, loved planning gatherings, and was known for her exceptional cooking. She especially loved attending her grandkids’ activities, family visits, and travel. She also enjoyed gardening and her flower beds. Shirley was always quick to laugh and will be greatly missed.

Shirley is survived by her son, Bruce (Angela) Garwood of McKinney, TX; daughter, Amy (Todd) Henrich-Alber of White Lake; seven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Judson Garwood (2020); daughter, Deborah McGuire (2023); and son-in-law, Douglas Henrich (2013).

In lieu of flowers, please direct any memorials to the family.

Service