Shirley Jean (Bolton) Stephens

She was a member of Southside Baptist Church for many years, and attended the Rose Sunday School Class. Shirley worked for many years at local radio stations, including WGAD and WJBY.

She is preceded in death by her parents Walter and Erbie Bolton, and her husband of 64 years, Donald Stephens.

She leaves behind three sons Greg (Darlene) Stephens, Tim Stephens and Eric (Jennifer) Stephens; sister, Jan Bolton; brother, Steve Bolton; grandchildren, Savannah Stephens, Langston Stephens, Daniel (Jessica) Kilgore, Cary (Lauren) Kilgore and Allen (Ashleigh) Kilgore; 10 great grandchildren; and numerous nephews and nieces including special nieces Amanda Gifford and Allison Miller who provided extra care in her last days.

Pallbearers will be Daniel Kilgore, Cary Kilgore, Clay Gifford, Cam Gifford, Tommy Bolton and Orey Bolton.

Special thanks to Southern Care New Beacon Hospice, especially Kinya, Kendra and Tiffany for their love and care; and to River Bend Assisted Living, especially Amber who provided sitting and extra care above and beyond for Shirley.

A funeral service will be held at Collier-Butler Funeral Home on Wednesday, May 14th, 2025, at 2:00 pm. Rev. Bud Swindall will officiate. Burial will follow at Pilgrim’s Rest Cemetery. The family will accept friends from 1:00 pm until the hour of the service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Shirley’s honor can be made to Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org.