Shirley Ann Boles, 83

Shirley Ann Boles, 83, of Plains, passed away peacefully in the comforting presence of her daughter on the morning of May 14, 2024. 

Shirley was born in Glendive to Clarence and Emma Peterson. Shirley was the second to youngest and only girl of her parent’s five children. Shirley’s beloved siblings include her older brothers Richard Bray, Robert Peterson, Duane Peterson, and younger brother James Peterson, all of whom she enjoyed growing up with on their family farm.



After graduating High School in 1958, Shirley attended and completed cosmetology school before meeting her lifelong love Benjamin Lyle Boles. 

Shirley and Bennie were married in Fairview on Oct. 27, 1961. Shirley and Bennie lived in Sidney for the first 10 years of their marriage and began their family there. Their daughter Sheri Sue was born in 1963, son Kevin Lyle in 1964, and daughter Theresa Michelle in 1966. 



In 1972 Shirley and Bennie moved their family to Plains, the town they would not only cherish as home but the place in which they would open their well-recognized family business, Benji’s Restaurant, in 1981. They owned and operated Benji’s for nearly 20 years and over the course of those years Benji’s was featured in three national magazines. 



Shirley was a devoted Christian and a proud member of her community. In her free-time she enjoyed playing with her grandkids, boating with Bennie, sunny drives with her children, attending the county rodeo, and growing her ever expanding prayer chain. After retiring in 2012 she dedicated her time to cooking small feasts for her family, cards and coffee with friends, and fellowship with all. 

In 2021 Shirley moved to The Auberge assisted living community in Missoula. Shirley absolutely loved The Auberge, where her genuine interest in others and joy for socializing earned her the title of Welcome Ambassador. 

Shirley is predeceased by her devoted husband Benjamin Boles, daughter Sheri Sue, and brothers Richard Bray, Robert Peterson, and Duane Peterson.

Shirley is survived by her son Kevin Boles, daughter Theresa Praley, daughter-in-law Daphne Boles, son-in-law Edward Praley, Jr. granddaughter Taylor Boles,grandson- in-law Carlo Pierini, grandson Edward Praley, III, grandson David Praley, brother James Peterson, and sister-in-law Toni Peterson.



To know Shirley was to love Shirley. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and compassion to her family and friends.

Services will be held at Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort in Paradise Hall on June 30 at 3 p.m.