Desiree Ann Monk Shirley, age 52, passed away unexpectedly, but peacefully, in her sleep at her home in Renton, WA, on September 18, 2017. Desi was born in Oakland, CA, on April 3, 1965.

Desi was a 1983 graduate of Lindbergh High School, in Renton, WA. She went on to receive her BA from Evergreen State College. Desi worked for the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe in Auburn, WA, for 15 years. She began her career there in the Youth Facility, then later as a teacher in the Head Start Program. She cared dearly for the families and children that she taught, as well as her fellow MELA team members.

Desi loved animals, most notably her 3 umbrella cockatoos, one of which she raised from a hatchling.

Desi will be especially remembered for her huge bright smile, outgoing personality, distinctive voice, unique and (at times) inappropriate sense of humor, and her friendly heart. There are no words to express how much she will be missed by all.

Survivors include her parents, Marlene Monk of Renton, WA and David Monk of Seatac, WA, as well as her brothers Tobin (Lisa) and Clinton (Tammy), nephew Dylan, and nieces Kalii and Elizabeth. Desi was preceded in death by her husband Brian Shirley.

Memorial contributions (in lieu of flowers) are welcome at the Macaw Rescue and Sanctuary in Carnation, WA. www.macawrescueandsanctuary.org