May 22, 1931 - October 31, 2025
Shirley Mieko Komatsu of Lodi, California, passed away peacefully at the age of 94. She was born in Sacramento, California, to Eijiro and Hana Kinoshita.
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Mitsugi Komatsu; her brother, Masayuki Kinoshita; and her sisters, Janet Misao Sugimoto, Eiko Nishimori, and Sadako Kinoshita. She is survived by her sons, Robert, Steven, and Gary (Jennifer) Komatsu; grandsons, Matthew (Erin), Caleb, and Jake Komatsu; bonus grandchildren, Andrue (Courtney) McElhaney, Arika Avila, Aaron Ulrich, and Kailee Avila; her brother, David (Naomi) Kinoshita; and many nieces and nephews. She is also remembered fondly by her extended Komatsu family, with whom she shared many cherished memories through the years.
Everyone who knew Shirley loved her. She was known as “everyone’s grandma” at her grandsons’ sporting events—always cheering on every child on the team as if they were her own. A lifelong sports fan, Shirley rarely missed a 49ers, Dodgers, or Warriors game, and she loved the friendly family banter that came with game days and holiday gatherings.
Professionally, Shirley worked in the insurance field for over 30 years, where she was known for her dedication to helping her clients and serving her community. She was also a long-standing and devoted member of the Lodi Buddhist Church, volunteering in the church office for many years.
Shirley will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her—especially her sons, with whom she shared a special bond and endless conversations (and debates) about sports. Her warmth, humor, and generous spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.
No formal services will be held at this time. The family asks that in her memory, you take a moment to cheer a little louder at the next game, lend a hand to someone in need, or simply share kindness—the way Shirley always did.