Jean Cartwright Shanley

Jean Cartwright Shanley, 85, died peacefully in her sleep on Sunday, October 28, 2018, at St Joseph's Bluffs in Jefferson City, Mo. after a long and brave battle with cancer. Jean was born on November 20, 1932, in London, England, the daughter of Sydney and Lillian (Bull) Cartwright, both of whom preceded her in death. She was united in marriage to Dr. Leo S. Shanley, her husband of 53 years, in St. Louis, Mo. Leo preceded her in death on July 3, 2015. Jean went to Woodlands Park School in London, England and graduated in 1949. She worked as a dental assistant for a few years but decided she needed a change of scenery and somehow ended up in St. Louis, Mo. She continued her work in dentistry until she met her future husband Leo. She then dedicated her life to raising her children and supporting her family. Jean was an animal enthusiast, always happy to take in a stray. She once attended an auction as the guest of a friend and returned home with both a dog and a horse as her new pets. Her home was often referred to as "The Shanley Zoo". Jean was passionate for the works of William Shakespeare, and was able to quote most passages from memory. Jean was an avid gardener and always loved to have fresh flowers around her. She was truly thankful for and appreciative of the love and care provided to her by the staff at Heisinger Bluffs, St. Joseph's Bluffs, and Hospice Compassus for the past several years. Jean is survived by her son, Michael and his wife Laurie of Fort Wayne, Ind.; son, Anthony and his wife Jill of Jefferson City, Mo.; and her grandchildren Sydney, Abigail, Anthony and Connor; nephew, Adrian Cartwright and niece Julie Oakley of England; and her cat, William. She was preceded in death by her brother Sydney Cartwright and her sister Margaret Cartwright. A private family memorial and celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy can be made to The Humane Society of Missouri, 1201 Macklind Avenue, St Louis, MO, 63110. Arrangements are under the direction of HOUSER-MILLARD Funeral Directors, 2613 West Main Street, Jefferson City, Missouri 65109 (573) 636-3838. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.millardfamilychapels.com.