Shirley Churchwell

Shirley Ann Churchwell, 84, of Springfield, MO passed away peacefully at home surrounded by the love of her family on Wednesday, July 1, 2026. Shirley was born the twelfth of twelve children on August 16, 1941, in Cabool, Missouri to Aaron Leslie and Laura Meda Ida (Doweidt) Hardy.

She graduated from Parkview High School, Springfield, Missouri in 1960. On March 22, 1961, she was united in marriage to Jerry Churchwell and to this union two daughters were born. They lived in several states including Nebraska, California, Idaho, Washington and Missouri.

Shirley worked in the accounting field for over 30 years including French’s and Kraft Foods of Springfield, Missouri where she made many close friends.

She was known for her kind and caring personality, her contagious laugh, and love of life. Shirley enjoyed traveling, shopping, reading, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Aaron and Laura Hardy; five sisters, Clare, Margaret and Myrtle (the twins), Jean, and Dorothy; six brothers, Aaron Jay, Vernon, Louis, Charles, Tom, and Edwin; and her daughter, Sharon Churchwell.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Carrie and Michael Bottoms; granddaughter, Whitney Burlison; two grandsons, Taylor Burlison, and Collin Bottoms (Paige); great-grandkids, Kenzie Bader, Marley Bader, Logan Bader, and River Burlison also survive her.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Midwest Cremation and Funeral Services of Springfield, MO.