Born on May 16, 1937, in Meade, Kansas, Shirley was the beloved daughter of Katie and James Benear. She attended Meade High School and later married the love of her life, James Douthit, on February 2, 1963. Together, they shared a beautiful life and raised four children.
Shirley dedicated many years of service as a dietary manager at Golden Years Nursing Home, where her work was marked by care and compassion. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her career—she found her greatest joy in caring for her family, especially the babies, whom she adored. Whether it was cooking a meal or sharing a warm hug and a laugh, Shirley’s love was deeply felt and will be dearly missed.
Shirley is preceded in death by her father, James Benear; her mother, Katie Pohl; her stepfather, William Pohl; her sister, Jimmie Haddon; her brother, James "Swede" Benear; and her nephews, Mark Haddon, Jeff Haddon, and Jonathon Dye.
She is survived by her devoted husband of 62 years, James Douthit, and their children: Luther Douthit; William Douthit and wife Darla of London, TX; Tracy Douthit and wife Nora of Del Rio, TX; and Teresa Douthit-Hampton of Ballinger, TX. She also leaves behind her sister, Wynema Dye and husband John of Meade, KS; grandchildren Garrett (Shelby) Douthit, Victoria Tye (Wade) Sigur, Nathan Douthit, Aubree Douthit, Alejandra Cervera, Paulo Cervera, Kayla Ogle, Cody Hampton, and Colton Hampton; and great-grandchildren Ryland and Bexley Douthit, Preston and Liam Ogle, and Zayden O’Neal. Shirley is also lovingly remembered by numerous nieces and nephews.
A visitation will be held on Sunday, July 27, 2025, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM. Graveside services will follow on Monday, July 28, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Concho Cemetery, RR 1929, Paint Rock, Texas. Pallbearers will include Cody Hampton, Colton Hampton, Nathan Douthit, Paulo Cervera, Garrett Douthit, Wade Sigur, Tom Hughes and Tommy Allen.
Shirley’s life was a beautiful testament to love, laughter, and family. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
