Shirley Mae Gaskins, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on October 28, 2024, at the age of 89 in Kennett, Missouri. Born in St. Francis, Arkansas, in 1935, Shirley lived a life rich with love, laughter, and cherished family moments.

Shirley is survived by her devoted husband of 34 years, Omer Gaskins, whom she married on May 21, 1990. The two met at Blakemore Drug Store, where their friendship blossomed into a lifelong partnership, as Omer traded in his solo years to become part of Shirley's loving and large family.

Shirley was preceded in death by Dee Lack of Steele, Missouri. Together, they raised four children: Debbie Crafton (Frank), Sharon Sutherland (Rex), Jeff Lack (Julie), and a beloved daughter, Becky Bruce (Terry), who also predeceased her. Shirley was further preceded in death by her brother, Joe Davis of Steele, Missouri, and her cherished granddaughter, Whitney Bruce. Her family was her pride and joy, and she took great pleasure in being surrounded by her children and their families, whose memories she held dear in her heart.

She took the greatest pride in her grandchildren: Jake Crafton (Lindsey), DeDee Binkard (Jon), Ashley Jewell, Leah Anglin, Hanna Hunter (Dustin), Megan Myrick (Jay), and Andy Lack. Each grandchild brought her immense joy, and she cherished the special relationships they shared.

Shirley's heart was especially full when it came to her 13 great -grandchildren: Layla, Lennox and Landrey Crafton, Crafton and Jon Dudley Binkard, Jude, Beckham and Evie Jewell: Hadley and Madden Anglin: Mason and Hayden Hunter and Jack Myrick. Her love for them knew no bounds, and they will forever carry her warmth and spirit in their hearts.

She was a devoted lifelong member of 3rd Street Baptist Church in Kennett, MO., where she found immense joy and fullfillment. Shirley's love for her church was reflected in her commitment and the connections she built over the years.

A true family woman, Shirley's home was a haven for gatherings, laughter and love. She instilled the importance of togetherness in her family, and her legacy will live on through the bonds and memories they created together.

Shirley will be deeply missed by her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her. In her spirit of love and devotion, the family encourages all who knew her to celebrate her life by cherishing their own families just as Shirley did.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Third Street Baptist Church of Kennett, Missouri

The family would like to extend a Special Thank You to the Staff of NHC and Nettie Miles wing for all their special care and support.

Graveside Services will be 2:00 pm Wednesday, October 30, 2024 at Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Kennett, Missouri. Reverend Johnny Bogle officiating.  Honored to serve as pallbearers: Jonathan Binkard, Terry Bruce, Frank Crafton, Jake Crafton, Dustin Hunter, Andy Lack, Jay Myrick and Rex Sutherland. Honorary pallbearer: Uyless Taylor

McDaniel Funeral Service of Kennett will be in charge of the arrangements.

online condolences may be made at www.mcdanielfuneralservice.com