Shirley Jo Weese, a cherished matriarch and beloved member of her community, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2024, in Schulter, Oklahoma, at the age of 84. Born on October 26, 1939, in Dustin, Oklahoma, Shirley's life was marked by her unwavering kindness, love for her family, and the joy she found in simple pleasures.
Shirley's early years were spent in the town of her birth, where she attended and graduated from Graham High School. Her education laid the foundation for a life filled with curiosity and a love for learning. Shirley's path led her to the heart of Marshall Weese, and the two united in marriage on June 11, 1972, in Gallatin, Tennessee. Their union was one of mutual respect and deep affection, and together they created a legacy of love that would extend through generations.
As a mother, Shirley was both a guiding light and a steady presence in the lives of her two daughters, Kaye Ashley of Henryetta and Kim Mahan of Schulter. She instilled in them the values of compassion, resilience, and the importance of family. Her influence was also profoundly felt by her grandson, Jason Ashley and his wife, Misty, of Henryetta, and her great-granddaughter, Raigen Lei Ashley, who brought her immense joy and pride.
Shirley's life was enriched by the bonds she shared with her siblings, June Pendley of Muskogee, Linda Peters and her husband Donnie of Okemah, Jim Rayburn and his wife Tammy of Wetumka, and Clark Rayburn and his wife Sharon of Guthrie. She found strength and comfort in their company, and they, in turn, were inspired by her enduring spirit.
Though Shirley's life was touched by loss, including the passing of her parents, James and Leona Rayburn, her beloved husband Marshall Weese, her granddaughter Caitlin, her son Kevin Mahan, her brother Tony Rayburn, her sister Peggy Johnson, and her son-in-law Raymond Ashley, she faced each challenge with grace and an unshakeable faith in the continuity of love.
Shirley's interests were a reflection of her character. She loved working puzzles, a pastime that spoke to her patience and her delight in piecing together the small moments that make up a life well-lived. Her love for these quiet moments of contemplation was a testament to the thoughtful and introspective nature that those around her admired.
She leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, friends, and other relatives who will miss her gentle presence and the wisdom she shared. Shirley's legacy is not one of material possessions, but of the love she gave so freely and the lives she touched with her warmth and generosity.
As we say goodbye to Shirley Jo Weese, we celebrate a life that was rich in experiences and abundant in love. Her memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew her, guiding them like a beacon through the joys and sorrows of their own journeys. Shirley's life was a tapestry woven with threads of devotion, kindness, and an enduring hope that will remain with us forever.
Viewing for Shirley will be 3-8pm Wednesday, February 21st, 2024 at Integrity Funeral Service.
Services will be 2:00 p.m., Thursday, February 22nd, 2024 at Integrity Chapel with Rev. Brad Campbell officiating. Services are under direction of Integrity Funeral Service.