Nov. 7, 1937 – Dec. 22, 2023
Shirley J. Shelton-Butler, longtime Denton, Texas resident, formerly of Garland, Texas joined our Lord on December 22, 2023, at the age of 86 years. She was born in Dallas, Texas on November 7, 1937, to Robert Bonner Shelton and Gussie Jewel Shelton.
Shirley graduated with Honors from Weatherford High School and loved theatre and drama.
She met Ralph Maxwell Butler at the First Christian Church in Shreveport, Louisiana and they were married on February 15, 1958, in the First Baptist Church of Weatherford. In 1967 they moved to Garland, Texas where Shirley began working for Dresser Oil Industry and a few years later Schlachter Oil Company. She devoted her life to raising her four children and was engaged with the Parent Teacher Association as a lifetime member with the Garland Independent School District. She served on the Garland City Council and was an active member of War On Drugs.
Shirley’s enjoyment in life was water skiing, spending summers with the family at the ocean and encouraging her children’s activities. She was quick witted and had an infectious smile! She was always there to lend a hand, comfort you or support you in whatever the situation may have been. Shirley brought light into everyone’s life she touched…a shining star! Her children and grandchildren were the light of her life.
She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister Patsy Darlene Shelton, and her brothers Robert B. Shelton, Jr. and Kenneth L. Shelton.
Shirley is survived by a son, Ralph “Skip” Butler and wife KayAnn, Donna Bell-Fleming and husband Ray, Brenda Hart and husband Jeff and Rebecca Smith and husband Larry. A sister, Beverly Patton and a sister-in-law, JoAnn Shelton. Seven grandchildren, Keaton Butler, Jordan Butler, Jasson Lee, Taylor Bell, Ashley Hart, Tanner Hart, and Joshua Moose. A host of great grandchildren and nieces and nephews.
In the quiet embrace of memories, Shirley will forever be remembered for her spirit, unwavering love and the countless lives she touched. Let us find solace in the enduring legacy Shirley leaves behind. A testament to a life well-lived and a heart deeply cherished. May her soul rest in eternal peace.
Memorial Services will be held Friday, December 29 at 11 a.m. at DeBerry Funeral Home in Denton, Texas followed by Graveside Service at Roselawn Memorial Park in Denton.