Mary Helen Snowball Shiew, born April 6, 1946 in Price, Utah, age 79, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at Intermountain Medical Center in Murray, Utah, surrounded by her loving family. Born to Jack W Snowball and Mary De Simone Snowball, Mary Helen was a beacon of warmth and kindness, leaving behind a legacy of love that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew her.
Mary Helen married Jerry Shiew June 18, 1976 in Elko, Nevada, 49 years ago, with whom she shared a deep and enduring love. Their union was not only a partnership but a beautiful journey that resulted in the birth of their beloved son, Gerald Shiew, and later, their treasured grandson, Jackson. The bond she shared with her daughter-in-law, Kendra enriched her life, highlighting the beautiful connections that family can create. These familial bonds were the cornerstone of her life, each moment spent with them enriching her world immeasurably.
Mary Helen grew up as a spirited tomboy, a free spirit with an unyielding passion for horses and a profound love for animals; especially dogs. Her two loyal dogs, Bandit and Lucky, were not just pets but cherished companions who brought joy and laughter into her home. As a wholehearted homemaker, she found immense joy in cooking, and baking her famous Christmas cookies, Italian Delicacies, and cream pies which become the family and friends’ favorites, that will be remembered with fondness at gatherings for years to come.
The most significant moments of her life revolved around her family—their milestones, laughter, and the countless memories they created together. Her nurturing spirit shone brightly as she devoted herself to caring for her grandson, Jackson, showering him with love, support, and wisdom that he will carry with him always.
Mary Helen’s spiritual journey began at Notre Dame as a child, where she cultivated a sense of community that she cherished throughout her life. Her faith was intertwined with her identity, providing her with strength and comfort. Loved her Catholic upbringing and spoke of it fondly. But she belonged to non-official Denomination, Just Born Again to the lord. She was famous as “Mama Shiew” throughout the community and local neighborhood; the mama to all.
Mary Helen will be lovingly remembered for her generous spirit, unwavering commitment to family and friends, and the joy she brought to all who crossed her path. She leaves behind her beloved husband, Jerry Shiew; son, Gerald (Kendra) Shiew; grandson, Jackson Shiew; granddaughter, Nakita Kister; sister, Jackie Majors; and her best friends, Diana, Paula, and Debbie. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jack W Snowball and Mary De Simone Snowball; and sister, Darlene Gibson.
Her legacy of love, kindness, and devotion lives on in the hearts of her family and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to a local animal shelter in her honor, reflecting her lifelong love for animals.
Memorial Service, Saturday, December 20, 2025, 11:00 a.m., Mitchell Funeral Home (233 East Main Street) in Price. The family will receive friends starting at 10:00 a.m. prior to the service at the funeral home, allowing all who knew and loved Mary Helen to come together to celebrate her life and the impact she made on so many.
Arrangements entrusted to Mitchell Funeral Home of Price and Huntington where friends are always welcome daily and may share memories of Mary Helen online at www.mitchellfuneralhome.net