Shirley Jepson

Shirley Ann Sage Jepson died on August 30, 2024, after succumbing to the effects of Dementia. She was born on September 25, 1936, in Dover, Kansas to parents John “Roy” and Mary Sage. Shirley attended and graduated from a one room school, Rural District #6 in Wabaunsee County and was a member of the last graduating class of that school. She then attended Dover High School and graduated as class Valedictorian. Following high school, she attended Clarks Business School in Topeka and after graduation she went to work for IBM. On August 31, 1956, she married Fred M. Jepson of Topeka. She became a stay-at-home mother after the birth of their son, Gary and daughter, Ronda. Shirley returned to work in 1978 after both children completed high school and was employed by the Auburn Washburn School District in the business office and retired in 1998. Given her interest in politics and the process of developing laws, she went to work at the Kansas Legislature and retired from various positions held there in 2018. She was a member of the First Congregational Church in Topeka where she also worked part-time over the years. Shirley was committed to her community. While her children were young, she worked with the PTA at Wanamaker Grade School, served as Cub Scout Den Mother, served as a Brownie and Girl Scout leader, and was also active at Shunga Valley 4-H club. Her hobby, passion better describes it, was gardening. She loved her flower and vegetable gardens and took great pride in ensuring they were always manicured to perfection. We’re not sure how many hoes she wore out! Shirley was always the family event planner and was responsible for many family events both at home and around the country. She loved traveling and went on many cruises and bus tours. If the energizer bunny had a human counterpart, it was our mother, Shirley. She was always willing to lend a helping hand and was not afraid of hard work! She was always grateful for all the blessings she received. Shirley is survived by her husband, Fred of 68 years; son, Gary (Kari) Jepson, Topeka; a daughter, Ronda (Bryan) Jeffries of Dublin OH; grandchildren, Megan Dye (Paul) Plain City OH; Heath Jepson, Topeka, Samantha Marsh, Topeka, MacKenzie Gray, Westerville OH; great-grandchildren, Aubrey and Rylee Price, Topeka, Ryan and Parker Dye OH, and Jayden and Wyatt Marsh, Topeka; brother, Harold (Adell) Sage of Dover KS and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Mary Sage; and brother, Robert Sage, Dover KS. The family extends a heartfelt thank you to the staff of Lexington Park and Ascend Hospice who were invaluable during this trying and difficult time. Visitation will be at 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Friday, September 6, at Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 SW Urish Road, Topeka KS 66614. Graveside service will be 1 p.m. Friday, September 6, at West Lawn Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions can be made to the Friends of the Topeka Zoo in care of the funeral home. Condolences may be sent online at www.kevinbrennanfamily.com

Shirley Jepson

September 25, 1936 - August 30, 2024