Shirley Ann Naughton

Beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother and nurse, Shirley Ann Naughton (Catlett) died June 28, 2025 of respiratory failure after a courageous battle with the disease. She passed peacefully surrounded by family. Shirley was deeply loved and will be deeply missed."  

Obituary

Shirley Ann Naughton (Catlett), beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and nurse, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family. Born on April 18, 1945, in Monticello, Iowa, Shirley’s life was rooted in hard work, compassion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to her family and the countless patients she cared for over the decades.  Many who adored her called her "Noonie."

Shirley began her education in a one-room schoolhouse before attending Monticello High School. Her journey into nursing began at the University of Iowa, where she earned her nursing degree and met her husband, Daniel K. Naughton. The two shared 57 years of marriage.

Throughout her 40-year career as a nurse, Shirley served communities across Iowa, Illinois, Arizona, California, and Connecticut, always bringing warmth and skill to her patients and colleagues. Nursing was more than a profession to Shirley—it was a calling.

She and Dan spent many cherished years in Scottsdale, Arizona, Hong Kong, Walnut Creek, California, and Wilton, Connecticut, where they watched their three children grow up and graduate from high school. In her later years, Shirley found joy splitting her time between Scottsdale, Arizona, and Glastonbury, and later West Hartford, Connecticut, to stay close to her children and grandchildren, who brought her endless pride and happiness. She also enjoyed traveling the world, visiting many countries in Asia and Europe, as well as an African safari and the Panama Canal.

Shirley is survived by her devoted husband, Daniel; two brothers, David and Daniel Catlett of Hopkinton, Iowa; a sister, Stephanie Geers and brother-in-law, Robert of Lees Summit, Missouri; her son, Patrick Naughton of Glastonbury; her daughter Megan Naughton and husband Jason Krajc of West Hartford; and her daughter Jennifer Basch and husband James of Davidson, North Carolina. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Nicholas Naughton, Charlie Krajc, Lilah Krajc, Holden Basch, and Riley Basch.

Shirley’s life was marked by her work ethic, pride, spirit, and commitment to her family. She will be remembered for her caring, her guidance, and the love she gave so freely.

A private service will be held in Iowa for Shirley in September.

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