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Shirley M. Exter Qualls, born December 15, 1920, passed away early October 19, 1999 after a long illness. She was a native of Albuquerque and the last surviving child of A.J. Exter, pioneer funeral director and humanitarian of the State of New Mexico. She was known widely for her volunteer efforts with disabled and elderly people, as well as her family. She enjoyed watching golf, Jeopardy, and Bob Barker. She was also a talented artist who designed one of the first Harley-Davidson logos. Shirley and her twin sister, Kathryn were talented dancers in their youth and performed at various city events, including the Kimo Theater, Sunshine Theater, and the Albuquerque Little Theater. The Exter twins can also be remembered by the Albuquerque streets, Shirley and Kathryn, which were named after them. She was dearly loved by many friends and family who will miss her quick wit and big smile. She will be laid to rest next to her twin sister, Kathryn Frei, at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. She is survived by her daughter, Janice Atchley and husband, Dan of Albuquerque; grandchildren, Tracy Leonard and Cynthia Staat of Rio Rancho and Travis Leonard and Dena Becker of Albuquerque, Trisha Leonard and Frank Troncosa of Albuquerque; great-grandchildren, Bobby and Mitchell Carrillo of Rio Rancho, Frankie Troncosa and Jesse Troncosa, both of Albuquerque; niece, Patti Scherer and husband, Jack; and great-nephews, Patrick and Christopher; niece, Lori Carroll and great-nephews, Don and Brandon; niece, Barbi Grace and husband, James and great-nieces, Kathryn and Kristina; nephew, Larry Frei and great-nephews, Jason and Bryan, all of Albuquerque; nephews, Robert Exter of California and Lauren Exter of Canada; and cousin, Ken Current and his son, Steve of Lexington, KY. Services were held Thursday, 2:00 p.m., at French Mortuary, University Blvd. Chapel, 1111 University Blvd. NE, with Pastor Larry Castillo-Wilson officiating. Interment followed at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Pallbearers were Don Leonard, Robert Carrillo, Paul Wood, Lynn Nethery, Larry Frei and Jack Scherer. Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be made to Multiple Sclerosis Society NM Central Chapter, 2015 Wyoming Blvd. NE, Ste F, 87112 or to Cystic Fibrosis Association NM Chapter, 4004 Carlisle Blvd. NE, 87107. French Mortuary, 1111 University Blvd. NE.
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