Shirley May Cramer, age 92, of Portage, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Monday, July 27, 2026.

Born on May 15, 1934, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Shirley was the daughter of Ever A. and Viola M. Holden. She lived her life with an unwavering positive attitude, a wonderful sense of humor, and a contagious laugh that could brighten any room. She had a remarkable gift for making people feel welcome, and her warm personality left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Whenever life became difficult, she would gently remind those she loved, "This too shall pass," words that brought comfort and perspective to her family and friends throughout her life.

Shirley graduated from high school in Milwaukee with the Class of 1952. Shortly after graduation, she married the love of her life, Gary Cramer, while he was serving in the United States Air Force. After Gary's discharge, they made their home in Detroit, Michigan, where they raised their four children: Kim, Craig, Colleen, and Tracy.

An avid runner, Shirley could often be found out on her daily run, no matter the weather. Family members joked that if they had somewhere to be, they simply had to wait for Mom to finish her workout first. Running wasn't just a hobby—it was one of her greatest passions. Throughout the years, she participated in countless 5K and 10K races and even completed a few half marathons. Her home held a drawer overflowing with ribbons, medals, and plaques she earned by placing in her age group.

One of Shirley's favorite stories to tell, always with a laugh, was that in her later years she often finished first in her age group—not because she was the fastest runner on the course, but because she was sometimes the only one brave enough to compete in the 70-and-over division. It was a joke she loved to share, but beneath the humor was something her family admired deeply: she never stopped showing up, never stopped challenging herself, and never stopped proving that age was just another number.

Animals always held a special place in Shirley's heart. Throughout her life, she opened her home to many beloved dogs and cats, each one becoming part of the family. In her later years, her faithful poodle, Pierre, her cherished cats, Sophie and Gucci, and most recently her beloved Tessie, brought her endless companionship, comfort, and joy.

For more than 25 years, Shirley owned and operated Quality Resale Boutique on Westnedge Avenue in Portage. What began as a business became a place where lasting friendships were formed. Many customers came through the doors of the Boutique, but many left as lifelong friends, drawn not only by the shop itself but by Shirley's warm smile, kind heart, and genuine interest in others.

Of all the roles she held in life, Shirley found her greatest joy in being a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her family was the center of her world. She loved deeply, encouraged endlessly, and was always there with a listening ear, wise advice, or a laugh when it was needed most. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were her greatest pride, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

Shirley also cherished the special relationships she built with each of her grandchildren and found great joy in being involved in their lives. One of the most meaningful bonds she shared was with her granddaughter, Desarae. When Desi followed her passion and started her own horse stable, Shirley was right there beside her—not only helping with the daily work of caring for the horses and cleaning stalls, but also supporting the business side of the operation. Those moments spent working together, sharing conversations, and caring for the animals created memories that both Shirley and Desi treasured deeply. For Shirley, being a grandmother meant more than simply watching from the sidelines; it meant showing up, lending a hand, and sharing in the passions of those she loved.

Some of her grandchildren's favorite memories were the simple traditions she created. A trip to the dentist was often made better with a stop for ice cream or frozen custard afterward—a small act of love that became a treasured memory and a reminder that even ordinary moments can become extraordinary when shared with someone you love.

Those who knew Shirley will remember her as joyful, courageous, and endlessly optimistic. She never met a stranger and truly had the gift of gab. Whether through a conversation, a smile, or one of her many stories, she had a unique ability to make people feel like lifelong friends.

Shirley is survived by her children, Kim Schmitt; Craig (Clinton) Cramer; Colleen Cramer; and Tracy Cramer and his wife, Jennifer Johnson; her beloved grandchildren, Carrie (Jon) Bourret, Mike (Crystal) Schmitt, Logan (Kelsey) Otto, Desarae Hargreaves, Zachary Cramer, Matthew Cramer, Benjamin Johnson, Jaidyn Johnson, and Brady Johnson; six cherished great-grandchildren; and many extended family members and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Gary Cramer; and her longtime companion, Chris Nezamus.

Shirley lived her life with kindness, resilience, laughter, and unconditional love. Whether she was welcoming customers who became lifelong friends, crossing another finish line, spoiling her grandchildren with ice cream after a dentist appointment, or sharing her home with another beloved pet, she found joy in life's simple blessings. Her greatest gift was making those around her feel loved, and that gift will live on in all who knew her. As her family remembers her, they will forever hear the words she so often shared during life's challenges: "This too shall pass."

Mom, Grandma, you crossed countless finish lines throughout your life, but none more meaningful than this one. We trust that as you crossed your final finish line on earth, God welcomed you into His eternal kingdom with the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant." Your race is complete, your burdens are gone, and your reward is everlasting. Until we meet again, we will strive to live with the same joy, kindness, compassion, and love that you so freely gave to all of us.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." —2 Timothy 4:7

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Shirley's guestbook and share your favorite memory with her family. Those who wish may make contributions to the YWCA Woman’s Shelter - https://www.ywcakalamazoo.org/..

The Horton family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 409 South Main Street, Vicksburg, MI 49097 (269) 649-1697.