Shirley Ann Fornia

Shirley Ann Fornia, 94 of Fredericksburg, Virginia formerly of Sioux City, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 24, 2024.  Funeral Services will be at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, August 6, 2024 at Morningside Lutheran Church in Sioux City, with Reverend Noah Ruppert officiating.  Interment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery.  Visitation will be on Monday, August 5th at Meyer Brothers Morningside Chapel from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. with family present at 6:00 p.m. and a Prayer Service beginning Monday evening at 7:00 p.m.  Online condolences may be offered the family at www.meyerbroschapels.com  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the hospice of your choice in memory of Shirley. The family extends their gratitude to Meyer Brothers Morningside Chapel for their compassionate support during this time.

Shirley was born on June 14, 1930 in Plymouth County, Iowa to Vic and Anna (Petersen) Hansen. She dedicated her life to nurturing both her family and her community. 

Shirley graduated from Kingsley High School in 1947 and later from Morningside College in 1957. She began her career as an elementary school teacher, shaping young minds for 11 years before transitioning to become a Fuller Brush dealer, a role she held for 40 years.

On August 16, 1953, Shirley married her sweetheart Carl Fornia. The couple shared a deep bond and a commitment to family and community.

In 2019, Shirley moved to Virginia to be closer to her daughter, son-in-law, and granddaughter, embodying her lifelong role as the family's cornerstone. She is survived by her son, Gary Fornia of Salt Lake City, UT; daughter and son-in-law, Sheryl and Michael (Mike) Pierce of Ruther Glen, VA; and granddaughter, Kristina Pierce.

Shirley had a love of animals and especially her dogs. Shirley and Dutchess, her faithful companion, spent cuddle time watching Lucky Dog on TV. 

Her hobbies included painting, gardening, and traveling. Shirley cherished her trips across the U.S. and a memorable journey to Denmark to explore her ancestral roots. Her involvement in community groups like the Red Hats, Sioux City Woman’s Club, Daughters of the Nile and Kan-Duettes reflected her vibrant personality and love for social gatherings.

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, Carl and her parents, Anna and Niels Viggo (Vic) Hansen. Her faith was an essential part of her life, and she was a devoted member of Morningside Lutheran Church, where she attended Bible study and participated in various community activities.