Shirley Coffey wasn’t afraid to walk up to a group of Washington crab fishers and have a conversation about how they were mistreating crabs as she witnessed them haul the animals onto the docks from the boat.

No animal was too small for Shirley’s compassion. Flies were not swat at, but let outside.

Shirley was spirited and smart. Bud, her husband, was more reserved but used his influence and spare time to lobby for animal protection laws. The two fiercely loved a white poodle named Kelsey.

Before they passed away, Bud and Shirley reflected deeply on the legacy they wished to leave. They determined their passion and hearts had always been with animals.

Shirley tirelessly researched animal protection organizations, focusing on their effectiveness and the number of animals impacted by their work. This focus led Shirley to bequeath a generous $800,000 to Mercy For Animals.

As she received hospice care, Shirley recognized that she wouldn’t see the funds used but said her heart would always be with MFA’s brave investigators. She really wanted them to know that.

To leave your legacy of compassion, please visit https://archive.mercyforanimals.org/will.