Shirley Jean Kerby was born in Mammoth Spring, Arkansas on June 3, 1925, the daughter of Carl Callahan and Doshia Staggs Callahan, and passed away on March 30, 2022 at Silverstone Place in Rolla, Missouri at the age of 96.
She was united in marriage to Cletes Kerby on February 10, 1946 who preceded her in death
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Doshia Callahen; her husband, Cletes Kerby; her son, Richard Kerby; and one brother, Travis Callahan.
She is survived by one granddaughter, Melinda Adamson (Bobby) of Rolla, Missouri; one grandson, Ryan Kerby (Diana) of Kentucky; nine great grandchildren, Olivia Moore, Tanner Adamson, Makenzi Adamson, Raven Adamson, Andrew Potocnik, Maria Kerby, Tobias Kerby, Decklan Kerby and Bailey Wilmeth (Cody); three great great grandchildren, Drake Wilmeth, Maci Wilmeth and Scarlett Wilmeth; four nephews, Jack Callahan Neal Callahan Steve Simers and Robie Simers; other relatives; and many friends.
Shirley was a Christian and a member of the Mammoth Spring United Methodist Church, where she sang in the choir and was the church bookkeeper. She was also active in church activities and faithfully attended church as long as she was able.
After graduating from Mammoth Spring High School, Shirley got a bachelor’s degree in business in Springfield, Missouri, and returned to Mammoth Spring, Arkansas where was the office manager and bookkeeper for the electric company.
Shirley was a homemaker and known for being a candy maker, keeping her family stocked up with sweets for the holidays. She also liked spending time outdoors and watching old westerns on television.
She will truly be missed by her family and friends.
Funeral services for Shirley Jean Kirby will be held on Monday, April 4, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel in Thayer, Missouri with Jaimie Alexander and Faron TBo officiating.
Burial will be on Monday, April 4, 2022 at Riverside Cemetery in Mammoth Spring, Arkansas with services under the direction of Carter Funeral Home, Inc. in Thayer, Missouri.
April 2, 2022 @ 11:49 am
Time passes, memories made, caring, sharing and loving each other. Life is special and when blessed with longevity you more time to have this with those you love. Praying for the family. We love you and are here if you have a need. God be with you and give you comfort ❤
April 4, 2022 @ 8:37 am
I’m so sorry to hear of Shirley’s passing. I have very fond memories with her Peck…and ‘Cathy’ Shirley’s helper. We would all meet at McDonald’s in Thayer every Tuesday for breakfast. She was a sweet lady and will be missed by so many. RIP Sweet Shirley
April 4, 2022 @ 1:16 pm
Melinda and Ryan Ms Shirley was such a blessing to me. I loved visiting with her at church then in her home. She reminded me of my mom. You and your families will be in my thoughts and prayers. Sorry I am unable to attend her service today. My heart is with you. ❤️????
April 4, 2022 @ 9:31 pm
I have truly missed Shirley, and her sweet smile and conversations, which we would have when she and Peck would come into McDonalds and meet with everyone. Sorry, but this is the only way I have heard of her passing, I would have come to her services if I had known. May God comfort the family, as I know she is an angel in Heaven.
April 15, 2022 @ 8:01 am
What treasured memories I have of growing up and of Shirley being on the front row, singing soprano in the church choir. What a lovely, gracious lady she was. My condolences to Melinda, Ryan and the extended family. Love and Blessings, Betty Jenkins Jeffers