Shirley Jean “Mamaw” Short, went to be with her Heavenly Father on February 9, 2026, in Kokomo, Indiana. Shirley was born on May 23, 1938, in Harlan, Kentucky, to Lillie and James Busch. She was one of six children in the Busch household.
Shirley was a beautiful and lively person who knew no stranger and could make anyone smile. Shirley married Carol Shelby and they went on to have four children, Perry, Glenda, Brenda, and Mike. Shirley, a mother of, always had a smile on her face and cheer in her voice and loved spending time with her children. Sometime later, Carol passed away and Shirley continued to work and provide for her family and that is where she met her next love, Ronald Short. After falling in love, the two wed and moved to Kempton to put down roots. There is where Shirley’s love of nature and flowers started. She had an eye for color and always made sure her yard of flowers were pruned and perfectly blossomed. Shirley was a true beacon of light with a heart of gold. She loved all and all loved her.
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, her late husband, Carol Shelby; son, Perry; and daughter, Glenda. She leaves behind her husband, Ronald Short, children, Mike and Brenda, and many grandchildren that will miss her dearly.
A funeral service celebrating Shirley’s life will take place at 3 pm on Tuesday February 17, 2026, at Stout & Son Funeral Home, 204 N Church Road, Sharpsville. Friends may visit the family from 1 pm to 3 pm on Tuesday at the funeral home. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.stoutandson.com.
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