Shirley Brown

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Shirley Jean Brown, loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Shirley, age 85, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on Thursday, March 6, 2025.

Shirley dedicated her life to education and had a passion for teaching. She attended William Jewel College and Southwest Missouri State University, earning numerous degrees in education. She touched the lives of countless students throughout her long career and loved to watch as they found their place in the world. Shirley was a life-long learner who found joy in sharing her knowledge while inspiring young minds.

One of the greatest love stories of Shirley’s life began when she met her husband, Charles. She was 17 and Charles was 23 when they married in May 1957. Together, they raised three daughters and worked side by side on their farm. Shirley cherished their time together and the memories they created.

Shirley is survived by her loving husband of 68 years; her three daughters, Delores, Debbie, and Tonja; eight grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.

In her spare time, Shirley enjoyed gardening, painting, and playing games with her many grandchildren. She had a creative spirit and a love for nature that shone through in all that she did.

In a book Shirley wrote about her life, she expressed her hope that descendants reading it would think, “I know them, these are my people.” She believed that family was very important—the link to the past and the pathway to the future.

Shirley will be deeply missed by her family and friends. Her legacy of love, dedication, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. May she rest in peace.

Graveside services were Sunday, March 9, 2025, at Johns Chapel Cemetery, Ash Grove, Missouri.  

Arrangements are under the direction of Wilson-Griffin Funeral Home, Ash Grove.