Shirley Faye Zimmerman, daughter of the late Orabell & Walter Thurston, was born on April 18, 1942, in Bernie, Missouri and departed this life peacefully in her home in Bernie, Missouri on November 5, 2023, at the age of 81.
Shirley was a true Jack of all trades, master of many. Her working years were spent in the jean shop, hanging wallpaper, and reupholstering furniture. Her true passion and what she really excelled at was being a homemaker. Her hobbies were plentiful and included painting, crocheting, cooking, and collecting. She was a member of the auxiliary at the Dexter hospital for many years, always sporting her pink jacket proudly. She also enjoyed fishing with her husband, taking her rightful seat as queen of the boat and sure to have the biggest catch of the day.
She was a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother. Known as “Grandma Shirley” to more than just her grandchildren, she was a true gem in this world, opening her home and her heart to all that wanted to enter.
On April 18, 1958, she was united in marriage to Howard Wayne Zimmerman. He survives of their home in Bernie.
Along with her husband she is survived by two daughters, Tracy Zimmerman and Tonya and husband Randy Pierce of Bernie; two grandsons, Shawn Lundy and Tony and wife Natalie Zimmerman of Bernie; one granddaughter, Brittney and husband Adam Carlson of Ellsinore; two sisters, Melba Baker and Mary and husband Jack Norman of Dexter; and three great-grandsons, SJ Lundy, Drake Zimmerman, and Cooper Zimmerman of Bernie.
Other than her parents she was proceeded in death by one son, Tony Zimmerman; two sisters, Helen Beauchamp and Thelma Hartley; and four brothers, George, Raymond, Ralph, and Bud Thurston.
Visitation will be held at Mathis Funeral Home in Bernie on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Funeral services will then be conducted in the Mathis Funeral Home Chapel on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Paul Pierce officiating. Interment will follow in the Bernie Cemetery.
Mathis Funeral Home in Bernie is assisting with arrangements.
