Shirley Marie Sena

Shirley Marie Rule Sena, age 90, passed away peacefully at home in Farmington, New Mexico, on Sunday, February 16, 2025. Born on November 6, 1934, in Goodland, Kansas, she was the only child of Lyle Francis Rule and Cleo Emma Jantzen Rule. The Rule family, originally involved in farming, decided to trade in their plows for powder and relocated to the Steamboat Springs, Colorado area around 1939.

As a girl, Shirley had a passion for horses and dogs, which eventually evolved into a deep admiration for Elvis and Hank Thompson. She finally gave in to Augustine Sena's charms and married him on June 13, 1957, in Raton, New Mexico. Together, they set up shop in Steamboat Springs and later Hayden, Colorado, raising four sons—thank goodness for small blessings, as there were no daughters to negotiate with!

Shirley was a true music lover, listening to country tunes and hymns every day. As technology advanced, she embraced her inner rock star, wearing earbuds and belting out her favorite songs to anyone who happened to be within earshot—sorry, neighbors!

For many years, Shirley and Augie were fixtures at Farmington's Calvary Chapel, serving in various capacities that no doubt kept them on their toes. Her unwavering faith and desire to embody the love of Jesus were evident in her kind and generous spirit.

Of course, we can't forget Shirley's not-so-secret passion for NASCAR! A devoted (and I mean DEVOTED) Jimmy Johnson fan, she made the trek to Phoenix for races every spring and fall, right up until 2023. If you didn't know she was a fan, just ask her—she was never shy about sharing that tidbit!

Shirley is survived by her husband, Augustine Sena, who is 95 years young; her sons: Lyle (Cap) Cipriano (Debbie Fasser) Sena, Wayne Robert (Jacqueline Kennedy) Sena, and Phillip Kirk (Rebecca Meredith) Sena; along with 9 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her son, James Michael Sena.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Farmington Calvary Chapel, located at 6925 E. Main St., Farmington, NM 87402, on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 2:00 PM.

Shirley will be dearly missed, but we know she’ll be cheering for her favorite driver from above!