Shirley Rich

Shirley Ann Rich, a devoted Christian and a beloved mother, grandmother, and wife, peacefully transitioned into the arms of the Lord on November 5, 2023, in Abilene, Texas. She was 88 years old. A funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, November 10, 2023 in the Elmwood Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow in Elmwood Memorial Park.

Shirley was born on October 10, 1935, in Henrietta, Texas, to her proud parents, Steve and Evie Miller. Her life journey was marked by faith, love, and unwavering dedication to her family. She attended Waurika High School, where she not only pursued her education but also found the love of her life, Weldon Rich. Their love story began there and blossomed into a lifelong commitment when they exchanged vows on September 6, 1952, in Waurika, Oklahoma. Their love was a shining example to all who knew them.

Together, Shirley and Weldon shared the joys and responsibilities of raising four children. Shirley was more than a mother; she was the heart and soul of her family, the epitome of a loving and skilled "domestic engineer." Her care, warmth, and culinary talents made their house a home, wherever they found themselves. Over the years, the family journeyed through various states, following Weldon's career with Halliburton, but their unity and love remained steadfast.

In 2007, Shirley and Weldon settled in Abilene, Texas, to be closer to their family. Shirley's passions were as diverse as her talents. She found joy in painting ceramics, the world of literature, tending to her yard's beautiful landscape, and demonstrating her culinary talents with delectable southern dishes. Her unwavering faith in the Lord was the cornerstone of her life. She could often be found reading her Bible daily, drawing strength and guidance from her relationship with God. Above all, Shirley's most cherished treasure was her family. Her love for them knew no bounds, and she dedicated her entire life to watching over, caring for, and nurturing each of them. Her legacy lives on through the love and faith she instilled in her family.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and three siblings.

Shirley is survived by her four children, Steve Rich and wife Janell of Snyder, Mike Rich and wife Pam of Longview, Eva Freeman and husband Mike of San Angelo, and Sherri Bevills and husband Johnny of Abilene; her grandchildren, Amber Stewart, Randal Rich and wife Kalee, Mark Adams and wife Hollie, Michael Rich and wife Lori, Matthew Rich and wife Natalie, Chase Freeman and wife Lucinda, Colton Freeman and wife Kaylin, and Christin Springfield and husband Tanner; 13 great grandchildren and 2 twin boys on the way; brother in law, Jim Rich and wife Mary; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Shirley Ann Rich's presence will be deeply missed, but her memory will forever be celebrated as a testament to faith, love, and the enduring bond of family.