PIERRE, SD – Shirley Bessert,89, of Pierre passed away peacefully on November 25, 2025, at Edgewood Living. Per Shirley’s wishes there will be no services.
Shirley was born on December 14, 1935, in Morocco, Indiana, to Clay and Blanch (Yuston) Masino.
Shirley grew up and attended school in Spencer, Nebraska, where she graduated from Spencer High School. On April 27, 1956, she married the love of her life, Beryle Bessert, in O’Neill, Nebraska.
In 1972, Shirley and Beryle moved to Pierre, South Dakota. It was there that Shirley found her calling at the Card and Candy store. For over four decades, she was a beloved figure in the downtown area, her friendly demeanor and loving nature making her a favorite among customers.
She was an avid bowler and enjoyed gardening and sewing. Those who knew Shirley will remember her as being kind and friendly.
Shirley’s is survived by her loving daughter, Debbara of Pierre; her sisters, Rose, Betty, and Lorraine; and her nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Beryle, her parents, Clay and Blanch, her brothers, Cecil and Charles, and her sisters, Gladys and Thelma.
