Shirley Marie Millett, of Newport, died March 6, 2007, following a battle with cancer and strokes for nearly 11 years. She was born Aug. 26, 1944 to Clifford and Esther Bjelde in Salem.

Shirley graduated from North Salem High School, and later that same year Salem Business College. On Oct. 3, 1964 she married Fred D. Millett, making their home in Newport. In 2001 she retired from working at PUD for 22 years. She was an inspiration to those who knew her for her dignified battle with illness.

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband Fred and daughter Tonya Marie. She is survived by sons Kyle Millett of Beaverton and Scott Millett of Newport; brother Stan Bjelde of Salem; and sisters Sandra Fryckman of San Diego, and Scherie Hansen-Nielson of Salem.

Celebration of Life service was held at Newport Church of the Nazarene by Pastor Bill Grigory March 10, 2007.

The News Times, Newport, OR March 6, 2007