Shirley White

Shirley Lavone White, 82, passed away on November 26th, 2022, in Overland Park, Kansas, surrounded by loved ones.

Shirley was born on April 12th, 1940, to Avon and Voil Welton. She excelled at several different jobs throughout her life, including caring for young children in her home, being the head dietician at the senior center of Cabool and Branson, Missouri, and owning her own bed & breakfast in Hollister, Missouri.

Although spending time with family was what Shirley enjoyed doing most, throughout her life she was also passionate about serving in the church, gardening, cooking delicious meals (such as her “famous” chicken and dumplings), going to shows in Branson, enjoying God’s beauty in nature, and traveling, especially to her beloved vacation home in Palm Bay, Florida. Shirley was a “fancy” lady and she enjoyed her crystal glasses and chandeliers in her home. She also loved diamond rings and wearing jewelry. Shirley always took pride in how she looked, and she would say, “It’s always a good day to dress up”.

Shirley spent her entire life spreading kindness, love, and the gospel of Jesus Christ to everyone she crossed paths with. Her family will miss her warm snuggles, wise advice, and fiery spirit while they await a reunion in Heaven.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, and her sister, Paulette Honeycutt, along with many dear friends and family members.

She is survived by her three children, Joe Smith and his wife, Carrie, of Branson, Missouri, Lisa Davis and her husband, Bryan, of Rogersville, Missouri, and Tracy Beasley and her husband, Van, of De Soto, Kansas. She is also survived by her brother, Richard Welton of Mountain Grove, Missouri, her sister, Ann Klingensmith and her husband, Junior, of Harrison, Arkansas, nine grandchildren, seventeen great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandson, nine nieces and nephews, and many extended family and friends who will miss her.