Shirley M. Snell

Shirley Mae Snell, age 89, of Maplewood, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 29, 2026.

Shirley was born on October 8, 1936, in Saint Paul, Minnesota, the daughter of George and Anna Pace. She grew up in Saint Paul and was a proud graduate of Mechanic Arts High School, where she formed friendships and memories that stayed with her throughout her life.

She was united in marriage to Douglas Green, and together they raised their family in Saint Paul. During those years, Shirley worked hard to support her family, holding positions at Gould Batteries and later Plastics Inc. Her dedication, resilience, and strong work ethic were hallmarks of her life. Douglas preceded her in death in 1990.

In 1992, Shirley married longtime friend and coworker, Henry Snell, beginning a new chapter filled with companionship and love. They lived together in Maplewood and Little Canada before returning to Maplewood, where they made their home at Carefree Cottages Assisted Living. Shirley spent the last several years of her life at Shirley Chapman Sholom Home, where she was lovingly cared for by numerous kind and gracious employees. We thank them for the love and compassion they showed Shirley through her good days and bad.

Shirley had a gentle heart and a deep love for all animals, especially cats, who held a very special place in her life. She enjoyed time with friends, camping, shopping, and spending countless hours at flea markets, always on the lookout for unique treasures—particularly angels, which she collected with joy and pride. Those who knew Shirley will remember her warmth, her quiet strength, and the care she showed to those around her.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands, Douglas Green and Henry Snell; her son, Douglas Green Jr.; her grandson, Jonathan Burns; and several siblings.

Shirley is lovingly survived by her children, Judy (Russ) Brisson, Wade (Deana) Green, and Tim (Paige Tahnk) Green; daughter-in-law, Dawne Green; foster son, Lance (Patty) Koren; step-children, Kim (Richard) Jungbauer, Brenda (Chuck) Perpich, Keith Snell, and Lisa (Corey) Stigen; grandchildren, D.J. (Jess), Joe (Amy), Jake, Pat (Katrina), Chelsea (Eric), Jess (Dillon), and Juston; many great-grandchildren; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss her dearly.

A memorial service celebrating Shirley’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Mattson Funeral Home, 343 North Shore Drive, Forest Lake. The family will greet friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.