Shirley Jane Parks

Shirley Jane Parks of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, peacefully passed away June 6, 2024, in Poplar Bluff, Missouri at the age of 87. She was born March 23, 1937, in Belgrade, Missouri, the daughter of Henry and Neva Akers. She married her best friend, Harold A. Parks on May 17, 1958. Shirley began her career as a banker at the family owned, Irondale Bank and later went on to own and operate an insurance agency. She passed her insurance exam with a 99%, the highest anyone had previously scored, but Shirley was extremely upset that it was not 100%. Upon retirement, Shirley and Harold relocated to Gamaliel, Arkansas. She enjoyed an array of hobbies, from waterskiing and sunbathing to crochet and cross stitch. She was a talented artist who collected and painted animals on rocks. Shirley also enjoyed collecting all things nature with her grandchildren. She loved flowers of every kind and gardening. She was known to be a perfectionist in all aspects and never stopped working, cleaning, painting, and caring for her family.

Shirley is survived by her daughters, Dawn (Gregg) Harding of Poplar Bluff, MO and Elaine Bender of Poplar Bluff, MO; grandchildren, Christopher Crump, Bridget Dale, Deana Adams, Dustin Adams, Matt Parks, Nicholas Barbee, Katy Dudley, Samantha Parks; many great-grandchildren, and one great great-granddaughter.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years; parents; and sons, Rocky Sparks and Harold Lynn Parks.

A Graveside Service for Shirley will be 2:00 pm, Saturday, June 15, 2024, at Maynard Bend Cemetery, Gamaliel, Arkansas, with Mr. Gregg Harding officiating.

Arrangements are by Kirby and Family Funeral and Cremation Services - Mountain Home, Arkansas. Visit an online obituary and guestbook at www.kirbyandfamily.com.