Shirley Joan Stephen

Shirley Joan Stephen, born on March 27, 1936, in Willow Springs, Missouri, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2024. Shirley was the beloved daughter of RW and Myrtle Kilpatric and grew up in Cabool, Missouri. A spirited and talented young woman, Shirley shone as a majorette in high school, bringing her love of performance and dedication to each event.

 After high school, she worked at Tiny's Steak House, where she met Orben Clark, whom she married soon after. They later moved to Ozark, Missouri, where Shirley established Shirley’s Beauty Salon, a cherished spot in the community. Together, she and Orben shared a passion for dancing, making countless memories on the dance floor.

 Shirley later moved to Leavenworth, Kansas, where her life blossomed anew with her second husband, Bill Stephen. The couple enjoyed square dancing, and Shirley taught ballroom dancing as an instructor. She and Bill also created a business in Leavenworth, designing and selling beautiful square dancing attire to fellow dancers.

In her later years, Shirley's artistic flair found expression at Lake Ozark, where she worked in a beauty shop and crafted intricate porcelain dolls. Eventually, she moved to Chadwick, Missouri, to live with her daughter Tonia, where she spent a decade filled with love, family, and treasured memories.

Shirley is survived by her sons Rance and Greg Micham and daughter Tonia Nemecek (Joseph); her grandchildren Jessica Micham, Tyler Micham, Trevor Micham, Joshua Baughman and Caleb Nemecek; her great-grandchildren Payton Baughman and Tatum Maudlin; her brother Jack Kilpatric; sisters Wanda Slack and Lolli Vaughn.

Shirley is preceded in death by her parents and six siblings.

Arrangements are under the direction of Adams Funeral Home, Ozark and cremation rites are accorded by Adams Crematory.