For almost all of her almost 90 years, Flora Cordelia Shrum, born November 25, 1935, demonstrated to her family, friends, and community what it meant to be a loving caregiver. Flora tenderly cared for her parents, Andrew and Cordelia Wilburn, as they aged. When the love of her life, Clarance Shrum – with whom she was united in marriage in 1979 – suffered health issues, she drew upon their years of laughter and happiness to
attend to him. Flora showed her love in many ways including her wonderful meals, delicious desserts, beautiful afghans, and creative birthday cakes. Flora loved to laugh, and she happily shared the abundance of her gardens with family, friends, and neighbors. Her family and friends will always remember her for her selfless manner and the care she
provided.
Flora was born on the family farm November 25, 1935. She joined older siblings Lloyd, Floyd, and Retha. Siblings Hayden and Lois were lost in childhood. She was very proud of the high school diploma she earned through a correspondence course after she left school to work in her brother’s general store. When she moved to St. Louis, she worked for Prince Gardner for many years, but after their marriage, she and Clarance moved back to Alton where they were the happiest. While Flora did not have children of her own, she embraced Clarance’s daughters, Rosia Wilburn and Shirley Groves, and their families as her own. Her nieces and nephews span four generations, and Flora was adept at remembering birthdays and special occasions for all of those dear to her. The last years of her life were spent in companionship with her beloved sister, Retha. Faith was a key piece of Flora’s life. She had a large church family, and made many life-long friends through her church work.
Flora died peacefully on November 5, 2025, at the age of 89. Flora asked to be cremated and her remains will be buried at Many Springs Cemetery in Alton, Missouri, next to her dear husband Clarance. Memorial contributions may be made to the Mercy Health Foundation to support their hospice services. The Mercy Hospice contact in St. Louis is
Destiny Brooks