Shirlene Sorden

(From Lockwood Funeral Chapel)

Emma Shirlene Sorden passed away on April 11, 2026 at the age of 86 at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, Missouri, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, and devotion to her family and community.

She was born June 10, 1939, to James Edward and Virginia Emma Arnold, both of whom preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her infant brother, James. Shirlene was united in marriage to Donald Sorden on January 12, 1956.

She was the loving mother of three children: Jim Sorden (Patty) of Lamar, Donnita Sorden of the home, and Donovan Sorden (Linda) of Lockwood. She was especially close to her granddaughter Nicole Eisensee (Mark) of Lockwood, often referring to her as “my kid,” and treasured time with their two children, Emma and Jax. Shirlene was blessed with 12 grandchildren (Jamie, Ashley, Abby, Jason, Aaron, A.J., Nicole, Kaylee, Brittany, Cassy, Nicholas, Brandon), 32 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren, each of whom she loved deeply.

A devoted member of Mt. Nebo Baptist Church, Shirlene lived a life grounded in faith. She enjoyed farming, gardening, crocheting, listening to bluegrass and gospel music, and was well known as a wonderful baker and entrepreneur. Her hands were rarely still, and her home was often filled with the fruits of her labor and love.

In recent years, Shirlene had become homebound, but her purpose remained strong. Though she often wondered why she was still here, she trusted that God was not finished with her yet. She found her calling in sharing the gospel with anyone she could reach, even the many salespeople who called her phone each day. With every conversation, she planted seeds of faith, sometimes receiving up to ten calls a day, and faithfully using each one as an opportunity to witness.

Shirlene was a fierce and faithful prayer warrior. Family and friends knew they could call her at any hour, day or night, and she would immediately lift their needs in prayer. Her faith was unwavering, her love was constant, and her presence was a source of comfort to all who knew her.

Today, we find peace in knowing that Shirlene is rejoicing in the presence of her Savior, walking those streets of gold, lifted in song with the angel choir she so longed to hear.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at Mt. Nebo Baptist Church. Burial will follow in Lockwood Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Tuesday at 2:00 p.m. until service time at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Nebo Baptist Church. Services are under the care of Lockwood Funeral Chapel.