Shirlenne Joy Upton, 90, of Fargo, passed peacefully into the arms of her Lord and Savior on Thursday, May 14, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Shirlenne was born on April 21, 1936, in Moorhead, Minnesota, to Harry and Georgia (Cook) Littlefield. She spent her early childhood growing up in rural Clay County before moving to Moorhead at the age of nine. Shirlenne graduated from Moorhead High School in 1954.

On December 17, 1955, she married Joseph W. Upton. Together they built a home and raised their family in Fargo, North Dakota.

While raising her young family, Shirlenne worked part-time at Prairie Public Television. She later worked as a waitress at Oak Manor, where she was known for her warm personality, she also worked part-time as a receptionist at Cook Sign Company. As her children grew older, Shirlenne began working full-time at Wells Fargo Bank, where her friendly smile and kind heart led to many lasting friendships with both customers and coworkers throughout her career. She retired in 2003 after many years of dedicated service. Shirlenne also enjoyed working part-time at the Fargo Country Club. She treasured all the friendships she made along the way.

A lifelong member of First Congregational United Church of Christ in Moorhead, Shirlenne was baptized, confirmed, and married there, sharing those special milestones with her twin sister, Sally. Her faith was an important part of her life.

Shirlenne enjoyed spending time at the lakes with friends, playing bingo, and attending steak nights at the Moorhead VFW. Above all else, she cherished time spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who brought her endless joy and pride.

Shirlenne is survived by her four children: Joe Upton; Pam (Dale) Anderson; Jeff (Becki) Upton; and Stacy (Bruce) Roerick; along with 10 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Kendall, Harry Jr., Donald, and Robert Littlefield; her sisters, Evelyn Brantner and Sally Petermann; and her daughter-in-law, Teresa Upton.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of HIA Hospice Heather’s House for the compassionate care, kindness, and comfort they provided to Shirlenne and her family during this difficult time.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. with a visitation one hour before the service at Wright Funeral Home, Moorhead. 

The family would be honored to have you join them for a luncheon immediately following the services.