James "Jimmy" Harold Shirley's Obituary
James "Jimmy" Harold Shirley, 81, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 28, 2025, in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Born on September 4, 1943, in DeRidder to Irvin Harold Shirley and Zara May Cole Shirley, Jimmy lived a life rich with love and service that touched the hearts of many.
For over six decades, he shared his life with his devoted wife Jeanie Faye James Shirley of Pitkin. Their enduring partnership was a testament to true love; together they raised two daughters who were the pride of their lives: Susan Shirley and Sheila Salpietra. Jimmy's legacy continues through his nine grandchildren—Amanda Brister; Brandon Brister and wife Amanda; Christopher Brister and wife Nicki; Brittany Chance and husband Nelson; Sarah Cody and husband Jared—and nine great-grandchildren: Allie Clause and husband Kaleb; Maycie Griffith; Destini Brister; Zane Wellmaker; Makenzie Brister; Sophia Smith; Ember Brister; James Brister—as well as one great-great grandbaby due to arrive this November: Baby Clause.
A man of deep faith and unwavering commitment to his community, Jimmy served as a deacon at Lone Star Baptist Church for over forty years. His dedication extended beyond the church walls as he volunteered for thirty-six years as Chief 1 with the Marlow Volunteer Fire Department—a role that showcased both his bravery and selflessness.
Retiring from Civil Service after thirty-two years allowed him more time to pursue passions such as carpentry—where he began building houses alongside his father— or making hand crafted knives and farming cattle. He found joy in deer hunting during crisp autumn days or tending to gardens bursting with fresh produce. Known for always carrying peppermints in his pocket for children at church gatherings or sharing jokes that brought laughter into every room he entered—his spirit was infectious.
Jimmy is also survived by one sister Vondale Shirley Schwarze of DeRidder along with numerous family members who will forever cherish their memories together. He is preceded in death by parents Irvin Harold Shirley & Zara May Cole Shirley along with several cherished relatives including father-in-law Millard James & mother-in-law Retha Haymond James.
Those honored to serve as active pallbearers are Zane Wellmaker, Christopher Brister, Nelson Chance, Kaleb Clause, Larry Bailey, and DeWayne Mancil.
Those honored to serve as honorary pallbearers are Brandon Brister, Joe Stephens, Kenneth Midkiff, and C.W. James.
In lieu of flowers please consider making donations towards lung cancer research through the American Cancer Society—a cause close to Jimmy’s heart reflecting how deeply he cared about others even amidst personal struggles faced throughout life’s journey.
As we say goodbye today let us remember not just what made him special but also carry forward all those lessons learned—from hard work ethic instilled within each generation down through laughter shared around dinner tables filled warmth created simply being present amongst loved ones gathered near!
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