Shirley Ann Rupert

February 13, 1944 - August 28,2022

Shirley Ann Rupert was born on February 13, 1944 in Tillar, Arkansas. She transitioned on August 28, 2022. Shirley was born to Willie and Mattie Reynolds, the 15th child of 18. She attended the local schools in Tillar excelling in academics and athletics. She was valedictorian and captain of her high school basketball team. After graduating, she married and had four children. Shirley was blessed to marry the man for whom she had prayed for. Willie E. Rupert, an Army Veteran, was the love of her life. Donna Rupert was added to their union. Their marriage lasted until Willie’s death, just a few months shy of 45 years. Shirley worked as a seamstress, cafeteria worker, and bus driver for Bakersfield Adventist Academy while pursuing her education and becoming a Registered Nurse. She enjoyed her 20+ year nursing career, working in pre/post-op, labor/delivery, and ER. She had numerous hobbies and interests: plants, gardening, cooking, baking, sewing, quilting, fashion, cruising, camping, aerobics, hiking, marathons, jigsaw puzzles, reading, watching Lakers/Warriors basketball games and cattle ranching with her husband.

A persevering woman of faith, she attended Southside Seventh Day Adventist Church. Attending church was a significant part of her life. She served in numerous roles: as an elder, bible study lesson teacher, and pathfinder/youth leader. The activities she enjoyed most were spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband, Willie Rupert, parents, thirteen siblings, and two children: Virgil Tucker and Donna Rupert. Left to mourn her loss are her children: Jethro Jr, Yolanda (Marq), and Nathan (Denise); grandchildren, Briana, Cori (Alton), Paige, and Blake; great-grandchildren, Luke and Jade; siblings, Willie C. Reynolds, Charles (Ruby) Reynolds, Gloria Toles, Merthyne Blanks, and Melvin (Florence) Reynolds; in-laws, Katherine, Ella Mae and TC (Ursula) Rupert; and a host of extended family and friends.

The family wishes to express our sincere appreciation and gratitude for the donations, flowers, kind words, thoughts, and prayers during the bereavement of our loved one.