Shirley Ann Newton, 85, of Bella Vista, Arkansas, died on Friday, September 30, 2022.

Shirley was born on December 21, 1936, on the Roswell Garst farm outside of Coon Rapids, Iowa to Donald and Ramona Hicks.  She married Duane Newton on August 2, 1969, in Coon Rapids, Iowa.  Shirley graduated from Drake University and worked as an English teacher and school librarian with Hubbard-Radcliffe Schools.  In her retirement, she and Duane moved to Bella Vista, Arkansas.

Shirley enjoyed playing golf, sewing beautiful quilts, reading, going to the pool, taking walks and shopping.  She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Bella Vista and several quilt and golf groups.  Most of all, she loved spending time with her family and friends.

She is survived by her sons, Tom (Becky) Newton of Windsor Heights, Iowa and Chris Newton of Springdale, Arkansas; and twin grandchildren, Roy and Claire.  She was preceded in death by her parents and husband.

Graveside services will be held on Saturday, October 8, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. at the Zearing Cemetery.  A reception at the Bethel United Methodist Church in Zearing, Iowa will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Circle of Life Hospice in Bentonville, Arkansas.

Arrangements are under the direction of Bella Vista Funeral Home & Crematory. On-line condolences may be made at www.funeralmation.com