Shirley Manzanares Leyba

Shirley Manzanares Leyba aka “Nana”, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, mother-in-law, and dear friend passed peacefully at the age of 68, surrounded by her family on October 22, 2024. This past July, Shirley celebrated 50 years of marriage with her devoted husband, Matt Leyba. 

Shirley was a talented artist in many forms: cooking, painting, drawing, sewing, jewelry making, gardening and home décor.

Her cooking was legendary to all who knew her and many favorite dishes included: enchiladas, tamales, chile verde, chile rellenos, curry, Polish breakfast, migas, and countless other dishes. 

Some of Shirley’s favorite pastimes were drinking wine, being silly with her family, thrifting, going to Wendover, gardening and beadwork. Most of all, she loved being with her grandchildren and shared a unique and special connection with each one of them.

Shirley’s door was always open to friends and family, and she will be remembered for her kindness, warmth, and generosity.

She is survived by her husband, Matt Leyba, her three daughters: Misty (Ben) Bishop, Stephanie (James) Houtz, Erica (Felix) Montanez, and her six grandchildren: Brendan Tovar, Christy (Nick) Dishner, Dominic Tovar, Gabe Chidester, Quincy Montanez, and Nia Montanez.

She is preceded in death by her father, Isaac Manzanares, her mother, Fay Manzanares, and her sister, Mercy Lopez.

Shirley’s celebration of life will be held this Sunday, October 27 from 12pm-3pm at Reunion Glen Clubhouse: 9910 S. Shady Glen Lane, South Jordan, Utah 84095.