MADISON / MONONA - Shirley Marie Theel, age 75, of Monona, passed away on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at Heritage Monona. She was born on November 15, 1949, in Madison, Wis., the daughter of Gordon and Mary (Beckwith) Jenkins.

Shirley was a graduate of Madison Central High School. On January 25, 1969, she married Russell Theel in Madison. They enjoyed 56 years of marriage. For many years she worked as an administrative assistant for the Army Air Force Exchange Service. Shirley loved to travel, and enjoyed playing Bingo, visiting casinos and watching soap operas.

Shirley was a member of the St. Matthew’s New Life Church, and her faith was her ongoing source of strength. She was devoted to her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Shirley is survived by her husband, Russell; daughter and son-in-law, Jodi (Gil) Franco; son and daughter-in-law, Scott (Stacie) Theel; grandchildren, Nic (Sabina) Higgins, Cait Higgins, Kahner Theel and Hannah (Brevan) Watson; and great-grandchildren, Mylah Higgins and Blair Watson; sisters, Virginia (Bill) Gostele and Barbara Porter; and other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her father, Gordon Jenkins; mother, Mary Jenkins; and sister, Janet.

A memorial service will be held at St. Matthew’s New Life Church, 7564 Cottage Grove Road, Madison, at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 15, 2025, with Pastor Heather Hayward presiding. Visitation will be held at the church from 9 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday. Graveside service will be held at HIGHLAND MEMORY GARDENS, 3054 County Highway BB, Cottage Grove, at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday. A time of fellowship and dessert at the church will follow the burial. Shirley's family asks that you honor her memory by bringing a dessert to share.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

Shirley M. Theel

November 15, 1949 - November 05, 2025

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