Shirley Rose Hessler Madia
November 15, 1934 – July 22, 2025
Shirley passed away on July 22, 2025 in Winchester, CA where she lived with her daughter and son-in law. Shirley was born in Delevan, CA, the daughter of Viola and Charles McDow. They lived with their uncle and aunt, George and Fannie McDow Corbin. Her mother passed away shortly after her birth and she was raised, along with her sister Twila, by their father as well as Buelah (Betty) and Al Brian (the Corbin’s daughter and son-in law). Their father Charles passed away 8 years later and Betty and Al continued to raise both Shirley and Twila along with their two sons Bob and James. They were both later adopted by Betty and Al.
James (Jim) Hessler was traveling through the country and stopped at the Brian farm to look for work, Shirley always said it was love at first sight. They were married in 1952 in Washington DC and then later moved back to Delevan, where their son James Jr.(Jim) was born. A few years later they moved to Southern California and had a daughter Cynthia (Cindy). Shirley and Jim were married for 27 years until he passed away in 1980.
She later met Joe Madia on blind date that led to their marriage in 1985. They lived in Tustin, Santa Ana and then finally Temecula where they built their dream home together until his passing in 2021. She enjoyed family gatherings and there are many memories at the family home – 4th July parties, Christmas gatherings and family celebrations.
Shirley enjoyed raising her family and then later doing administrative work at several different companies. She went on to work with Joe in his tax practice as well. Once retired, Shirley spent years helping with her grandchildren – watching them prior to the preschool years, picking up after school and fun times during summer breaks. Family was always her focus, but she also enjoyed sewing, crocheting, puzzles, crafts and reading.
Shirley is survived by her children Jim (Lisa) and Cindy (Vic); grandchildren Jessika (Joe), Jacob, Brian (Whitney), Emily (Austen) and Matthew; great grandchildren Ellie, Kayden, Alice and Julia; and her brother Bob.
Shirley will be dearly missed by her family.
Shirley always loved dogs, both hers and the rest of the families. If you would like to make a donation in her name, please consider making one to Animal Friends of the Valley.
Shirley’s memorial service is on Saturday, August 16th at 10am at Murrieta Valley Funeral Home, with a reception following. On Monday August 18th, their will be a graveside service at Maxwell Cemetery at 10am.
