Shirley Ernest

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Shirley Ann Ernest, 79, of Neosho, Missouri, departed this life on Sunday, August 28, 2016, at her residence after a sudden illness.

Shirley entered this life on January 6, 1937, in Dover New Jersey, one of three children born to the late Raymond Lewis and Gladys May (Robertson) Sharp. Her formative years were spent in Trenton, New Jersey. On May 7, 1959, she was united in marriage to Thomas H. Ernest, Sr. and to this union five children were born. Being the wife of a Marine, the family made their home in various parts of the United States before moving to Goodman, Missouri, in 1969. For over sixteen years she was employed by Tyson Foods in Neosho, Missouri, retiring in 1994. She enjoyed playing solitaire, gardening, canning, being outdoors, visiting with her neighbors and caring for the elderly. She was a member of Harvest Baptist Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Thomas Ernest, Sr. on January 1, 1982; and one brother, Jubie Sharp.

Shirley is survived by her five children, Doris Turney and husband, Everett, of Monett, Missouri, Donna Lee of Reeds, Missouri, Brenda Pogue and husband, Tom, of Goodman, Missouri, Tommy Ernest, Jr. of Neosho, Missouri and Rex Ernest and wife, Becky, of Anderson, Missouri; sixteen grandchildren; twenty-eight great grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; a sister, Gladys Smith of the state of New Jersey; as well as a host of other family and friends.

A private family graveside was held at the Howard Cemetery in Goodman, Missouri, with Bro. Kenji Harrington officiating. Those honoring her life by serving as pallbearers were Raymond Brownfield, Brian Pogue, Clifton Pogue, Mike Leak, Jake Leak and Cody Ernest. Robert Lee, Rex Ernest, Jr., Levi Lee and Skyler Ernest served as honorary pallbearers. Memorials are being directed to the Make a Wish Foundation and contributions may be left at the funeral home. On-line condolences may be sent to the family through our website, www.ozarkfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of the Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.