Shirley Ann Ambrose was born on April 30, 1934, in Bozeman, Montana, and passed away on June 28, 2026, in Tucson, Arizona. 

Shirley moved to Patagonia in 1976 and worked at the Little Outfit Ranch. With her exceptional business skills, she later joined Patagonia Schools, where she served as Business Manager for 20 years. She was incredibly proud of her work with the schools and especially loved the students, always referring to them as “the kids.” She worked tirelessly to help secure a weight room and swimming pool for the school, often saying, “These kids need something to do.” Shirley’s warm smile and generous spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her. 

She had many dear friends throughout the Patagonia and Sonoita communities. In 1984, she married the love of her life, William “Bill” Ambrose. Together, they created a home that was always open to family and friends. It was not uncommon for Bill and Shirley to pull extra steaks from the freezer to feed unexpected guests who stopped by. 

Before making Patagonia her home, Shirley worked at the Elkhorn Ranch in both Arizona and Montana and served as Executive Secretary for the Montana State University Athletic Department. 

Family was the center of Shirley’s life. Nothing brought her greater joy than having her family gathered at their home in Patagonia. Her yard was always filled with beautiful flowers and plants. She and Bill shared a love of gardening, growing vegetables and gourds that Shirley later transformed into beautiful painted works of art. Dancing with Bill was one of her greatest joys, and it remained one of her favorite memories throughout the last few years of her life. 

Shirley was predeceased by her beloved husband, William “Bill” Ambrose; her parents, Floyd and Helen Stoner; her daughters, Donna Wing and Susan Stewart; and her stepdaughter, Suzanne Sosa. 

She is survived by her daughter, Helen “Holly” Allen (Doug); her stepson, J.W. Ambrose; eight grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; her sister, Linda and her brother, Gary. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.  Having her grandchildren and great-grandchildren visit their home brought Shirley endless happiness. 

A memorial service will be held at Patagonia Community Methodist Church on July 25, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Black Oak Cemetery; Valerie Burleson, 13300 E Beatty Rd., Sonoita, AZ 85637 or Patagonia Volunteer Fire &Rescue: PO BOX 497, Patagonia, AZ 85624. 

Shirley will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, unwavering dedication to her family and community, and the smile she shared so freely with everyone she met.