Julia Ann Shires

Julia Ann (Everhart) Shires was born January 14, 1942, to Marjorie Anna (Bechtel) Everhart and Leland Hayes Everhart. She was raised in Massillon, Ohio, and graduated from Jackson High School where she enjoyed playing flute in the marching band.

While on vacation she met and developed a fondness for Lisle Henry Shires. They married in June 1964 at Grace United Methodist Church in Des Moines, Iowa. They were active members of Grace for more than 50 years and some of their closest friends were members of the Paramates and Neighbors adult Sunday school classes.

Julia and Lisle made their home in West Des Moines where they raised their children and cultivated lasting friendships with neighbors, co-workers, and church friends, many of whom became cherished “extended family” members and camping buddies.

Julia worked for the City of West Des Moines for over 18 years and retired from the position of Deputy City Clerk in June 2001.

During retirement, she was active in the Polk County Master Gardener Association and the Des Moines Area Quilters’ Guild. She created many quilts as gifts for loved ones, including baby quilts and special wall hangings. One of her wall quilts won a pink ribbon at the Iowa State Fair.

Julia is survived by her children, Kathleen Alexander (Dan) and Christopher Shires (Sarah); grandchildren, Zachary, Joshua, Henry (Allison), Norah and Faith, her nieces and nephews and many treasured friends. She was preceded in death by her husband and her parents.

A service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, March 13, 2026 at Grace United Methodist Church, 3700 Cottage Grove in Des Moines with visitation one-hour prior. Burial to follow at Jordan Cemetery with an open house following at Wesley on Grand Life Auditorium, 3520 Grand Avenue, Des Moines.

Memorial contributions may be made to the West Des Moines Historical Society in memory of Julia.

Condolences may be expressed online at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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