Shirley McKeown, 82

November 9, 1942 – May 5, 2025

Shirley Jean Windham McKeown, known to friends and family as Shirley McKeown, passed away peacefully after a long battle with dementia on May 5, 2025, at the age of 82. Born on November 9, 1942, in Ripley, Mississippi, Shirley was a beacon of love and joy to all who knew her.

Shirley’s early years in Ripley set the stage for a life characterized by warmth and dedication. Her infectious smile and caring nature were evident from a young age. She embarked on a rewarding career in retail. Shirley’s magnetic personality made her a favorite amongst colleagues and customers at Gibson, T.J. Maxx, and other retail establishments. She had a knack for making every person she interacted with feel valued and special.

Beyond her professional life, Shirley was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. She is survived by her loving family, including her two daughters, Barbara Gates (Rickey) and Patricia Johnson (Kendell), and her two sons, Donald and Ronnie McKeown. She was a proud and doting grandmother to nine grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren who will carry her legacy forward. Shirley also leaves behind her cherished sisters, Ann Cornelius and Teresa Bullock, and her brothers, Herman and Gary Windham. Her family was the cornerstone of her life, and she invested her time and love into nurturing these precious relationships.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Woodrow and Opal Windham, and her beloved husband, Major McKeown. The love and lessons they shared have left an indelible mark on her family, and her memory will be a treasure to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Those who knew Shirley will remember her for her love of life and passion for the things she held dear. Her cat “Baby” was her constant companion, and her affection for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren was boundless. Shirley had a flair for style, always ensuring her hair and makeup were impeccable, and she was rarely seen without her signature scent of perfume. Her friends meant the world to her, and she cherished the time spent with them.

Shirley also had a special love for Christmas, a time that was made even sweeter by her homemade sweets and candy—a tradition eagerly anticipated by family and friends alike. Her thoughtful nature shone through in these lovingly crafted treats, which were just one of the many ways she spread joy throughout the year.

Described by those who loved her as loving, thoughtful, and passionate, Shirley’s impact on her community was significant. She had the rare ability to make every individual feel loved and important, a quality that endeared her to many. Her presence was a gift, and her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew her.

Services to celebrate her life will be on Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 2:00pm a visitation from 11:00am until the start of the service. All at United Funeral Service.

Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.