Hocking-Gabriel, Shirley J. 1935-2025 St. Joseph, Mo.

Shirley J. Hocking-Gabriel, 89, St. Joseph, passed away Saturday, Aug. 2, 2025. She was born Oct. 29, 1935, to George and Martha (Dickinson) Sauter, in Halls, Missouri.

Shirley, a graduate of Benton High School in the class of 1953, went on to further her education and passion for helping others by earning her nursing degree at Mount St. Scholastica, in Atchison, Kansas. This commitment to care led Shirley to a career in nursing, working tirelessly in various capacities throughout St. Joseph, before retiring from St. Joseph State Hospital.

Her dedication to nursing was paralleled only by her devotion to her family, both of which she regarded as her greatest achievements.

She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Martha Sauter; husbands, John W. Hocking and Henry Gabriel; siblings, JoAnn Devore, Robert Sauter, Donald Sauter, and Carol Bosier.

Survivors include her children, Linda Croner (Mike) and Michael Hocking (Carmen); grandchildren, Molly Richards (Brandon), Nathan Croner (Ally), Blake Hocking (Daniela), Ashley Golledge (Caelan), and Nicholas Hocking; great-grandchild, Madelyn Richards; siblings, Nancy Harris, Ralph Sauter, and Arthur Sauter; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Farewell Services and Public Livestream 1 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 13, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Mount Auburn Cemetery. The family will gather with friends one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association or the American Heart Association.

Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com. As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.