Shirley Ann Burgess

Shirley Ann (Geneva) Burgess, 86, departed from this world peacefully in Bridgeport, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. Born on January 11, 1939, in Crowder, Oklahoma, she was the cherished daughter of Dennis Albert and Ruby (Wilson) Geneva, both of whom have since passed. Reunited with her beloved husband Lester Burgess, and her dear siblings - sisters Alice Hammond, Nettie Marcus, and Pat Weaver, brothers John Geneva and Dwight Geneva, as well as her granddaughter Nicole Thrasher - Shirley’s spirit will forever glow amidst the constellation of family, friends, and faith.

Shirley’s youth in Crowder was colored with the vibrant tapestry of her family's musical talents. An enthusiastic basketball queen, she also filled church pews with her soulful singing, a testament to her deep devotion and love for the Lord. Throughout her adult life, she and Lester ventured into entrepreneurship, running Step By Step Plumbing in Parker County. An ambitious and multifaceted individual, Shirley also earned her Real Estate license and served as a Loan Officer, showcasing her unwavering dedication to her family and her craft.

In moments of leisure, Shirley found joy in penning heartfelt poetry and relished the camaraderie found within the warm company of her friends at the Red Hat Club gatherings.

She is lovingly remembered by her children: Lynne Kirk and her husband Terry, Lesellie Gonzalez, Marcy Blakely and her husband Jack, and Matthew Thrasher and his wife Rocio. Additionally, she is survived by her brother Conny Geneva and his wife Lois, as well as her sister Quannah Schlesselman and her husband Steve. The legacy of Shirley's affection extends to her grandchildren: Jason, Candie, Joshua, Jesse, Jennifer, Eli, and Natalie, along with her great-grandchildren: Kaleb, Ethan, Dayne, Chase, Austin, Ezekuel, Malachi, Noah, Kerri, and James, and her great-great-grandchildren, Nicole and Emory.

As we reflect on her life, we remember Shirley as a nurturing matriarch, an embodiment of grace, resilience, and unwavering love. Her memory will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of all those fortunate enough to have known her.