God is Good. Shirl Eteeyan, 82, had that message not only written in the concrete of her home’s foundation, but more importantly, in the foundation of her life.
As a middle child of three, born in 1941 and raised in Cameron, MO, she would become the mother of three of her own.
As the world changed and opened up possibilities, Shirl became a true example of an independent woman. Single and already challenged with health issues, she put herself through both college and graduate school. Some might say she was stubborn. But when it’s truly understood what moved her–her love for Jesus, her family and always in the pursuit of good–one might choose the word formidable. And when ‘the most handsome man’ she had ever seen asked this middle-aged professor for tutoring, her life journey now included a partner, Bill. Their devotion to each other whether in good or bad times is a love story of peace, forgiveness and steadfastness.
For those who called her mom, she was the best stain remover expert ever known, the best remember your special day with a card that always arrived on time and took genuine joy in your happiness. For those who called her grandma, craft projects, cheers from the sidelines and snacks to grab on the go told them that her hidden pain would never keep her from them.
For those who called her friend and family, she was known to just be a phone call away, believed prayer changed things and would join them at Cracker Barrel any day. Shirl was ‘complicated’ to the doctors as she neared her home-going, but she believed, as she always said, tomorrow would be better. And as she now looks down from Heaven in that tomorrow, her message and legacy is one of child-like faith; Love one Another, for God has a plan for you and a better one than you could ever imagine.
Trust in God because God is Good. Shirley Lea (Parks) Eteeyan, 82, peacefully slipped away July 20, 2023 in St. Joseph, MO. Born February 28, 1941. Daughter of the late Lloyd & Naomi Parks. Sister to Ereline McCord and the late Jack Parks. Wife to William Eteeyan Jr. Mother to Matthew Cathey, Janet Woodward, Julie Love Smith, Kimberly, Derek and the late Kellie Eteeyan.
Grandmother to over a baker’s dozen grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Shirl was cremated under the direction of Poland Thompson Funeral Home in Cameron, MO. The family will hold a private graveside service at a later date.
