Shirley Reiman

Memorial Services for Shirley Joan Reiman, 72, of Jefferson, Texas will be held at the Union Baptist Church in Jefferson, Texas on Friday, March 6, 2026, at 5pm. A reception will follow at The House of Seasons in Jefferson. Burial was at her family cemetery in Butte, Nebraska on February 21, 2026. Local arrangements under the direction of Haggard Funeral Home.

Shirley Joan Reiman, 72, of Jefferson, Texas, was born in O’Neill, Nebraska on December 9, 1953, to James and Barbara Reiman.  She passed away on February 5, 2026, surrounded by family and friends.

 Shirley lived a full life that included extensive world travel. Shirley never forgot the values she learned growing up in her hometown of Butte, Nebraska: work hard; think smart; and enjoy life. “Hurry Up!” was not just a phrase, but a way of life she lived fully and enthusiastically.  Faith, family, and friends gave great meaning to her life.

She was the eldest of five children.  She graduated from Butte Public School.  She attended the University of Nebraska Omaha and after transferring to Arizona State University she earned a degree in fashion design. Shirley built a long and successful career in the retail industry, working for several companies before receiving a call that would change her life. A headhunter invited her to New York City to meet Estée Lauder. Shirley went, met Estée herself, and of course got the job, beginning a remarkable 25-year career with the company.

In 1989, she was transferred to Dallas, Texas, where she continued her work with Estée Lauder until her retirement in 2000.

Never one to slow down, Shirley began a new chapter in 2002 as President of the House of the Seasons, LLC, which operates the historic House of the Seasons in Jefferson, Texas, originally built in 1872. She went on to restore several other historic homes and buildings throughout the city, leaving a lasting mark on the community she loved. Her laugh still fills rooms and businesses across Jefferson.

As chef, tour guide, gardener, and “Boss Lady,” Shirley became one of Jefferson’s most beloved personalities. She welcomed and entertained guests from all walks of life, including President George W. Bush, current CIA Director John Ratcliffe, numerous members of the US Congress and state officials and notable celebrities. Shirley’s warmth, wit, and unmistakable presence made her unforgettable to all who knew her.

She is survived by her partner, Richard H. Collins of Dallas and Jefferson; her stepdaughter, Genevieve Collins (Dwight DeCarme) of Dallas; her sister, Jane Heffron (Tom) of Castle Rock, CO; her brothers, Kelly Reiman (Andrea) of Bond, CO; Larry Reiman (Carie) and Neil Reiman (Cathy) of Butte; and many nieces and nephews.  She is preceded in death by her parents.

Shirley lived boldly, led fearlessly, and loved deeply. She lived a life that counts. She will be dearly missed.

In lieu of flowers, please make gifts or donations to the Jefferson Historical Museum or the Union Baptist Church.

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