Shirley Jane Tidey

Shirley Jane (Weber) Tidey, age 99, of Berrien Center, passed away peacefully on June1st, 2026. Shirley was born on August 29th, 1926, in Benton Harbor, Michigan, to Kneeland Weber and Luella (Tonkin) Weber. She graduated from Benton Harbor High School in 1944 and on January 24th, 1948, she married the love of her life Carl Tidey. Carl and Shirley shared over 63 years of marriage often spent traveling, and socializing with friends.

After High School, Shirley worked as an X-Ray technician at Mercy Hospital in Benton Harbor until her marriage to Carl. Together, they raised a family and built the Tidey Farms and Trucking business, fostering a legacy that has been passed down through their children and grandchildren. Shirley's energy and enthusiasm for life showed brightly throughout her 99 years and her contagious laugh brought joy to all those around her. Shirley enjoyed puzzles and word searches and was known for having three tables in her home dedicated to puzzles. She also enjoyed sitcoms, cooking, and anything that satisfied her sweet tooth. She enjoyed spending summers on the farm, and looked forward to escaping to the sunshine and warmth of Florida in the winter. She lived independently at her home of 78 years, with the help of her three sons and other family members.

She will be remembered for her loving nature and her love for gardening. A life long animal lover she found endless happiness, comfort, and joy in the companionship she cherished throughout her life. Shirley maintained many collections throughout her life including seashells, lighthouses, nut crackers, and vintage salt dips. She was passionate about health and wellness and embodied that lifestyle every day. She was a member of Sacred Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Dowagiac Michigan. She lived a long and meaningful life marked by faith, and devoted to family. Her warm spirit touched all those in her life.

She is survived by her sister Patricia (Terry) Yore of Sodus. Her three sons; Gregory Tidey, Jeffrey (Phyllis) Tidey, and Curtis (Katherine) Tidey; 9 grandchildren, Tim (Gayle) Tidey, Chris (Sandy) Tidey, Jon (Katie) Tidey, Chad (Laura) Tidey, Sean Tidey, Jenna (Michael) Kemper, Ryan Tidey, Jamie (Corey) Seger, and Maggie Tidey; 12 great grandchildren and 7 great-great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband, Carl Tidey in 2011.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Berrien County Animal Control or Franklin Church.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Bowerman Funeral Home & Cremation Services.