She was an officer  ,sergeant  , detective sergeant under my supervision while at UCO and one of the truest friends I ever had.  She is in my heart and will live forever as long as we remember her courage, great smile, infectious laugh and her 'Shirley-isms'.  

From high school, she was funny, fun, and very down to earth...even as a senior.  Love and prayers right now. ❤️🙏🏼

I met Shirley while I was working part-time at Dillard's men's fragrances (1994-2000).  
I had a full time job before I came to work at Dillard’s in the evenings.  Our schedule didn’t allow for a break time.  There were many times I would ask Shirley if she could pick up some chicken nuggets and a drink for me. She gladly did it or if she couldn’t she would find a way.  The Shirley that I knew was kind, loving, giving and cared about others more than herself.  She was a servant leader.
There were several occasions when Shirley was on duty that she had to survey a group of young men shoplifting colognes.  She would stand by the fragrance counter, talk to clerks and myself, like she was shopping for cologne.  Her goal was for young men to give up and leave the fragrance counter. She was very skillful in her work.  
I pray that God grant her husband and all the family members comfort and peace for the coming days.  
Please accept my sincere condolences.


Never knew her personally but after tribute showing felt kinship as an officer with her 
Previous Tulare County Sherrif's Deputy and Chaplain for Tulare County in California

My heart goes out to shirley' s family Johnny and Clara, Beth, Paul, Chris and to David and his family.  Shirley will always be the country girl to me.  I was raised just three miles from her.  Shirley's  laugh and smile was wonderful!  
You are in my prayers and in Gods care.
Love 
Tom and Shelly Pelter Davis
Haven Davis



I’m struggling to find the words to express how much Shirley meant, and still means, to me. Shirley gave me my first job as a UCO student officer in college, from there she took me under her wing and would joke that I was the daughter she never had. Shirley and David went as far as opening their home to me. It takes some incredible people to go from having no kids at home to letting a college aged girl move in.  Oh how I wish I could go back and soak in more nights of watching tv with them on their couch, and cuddling with the cats. Shirley taught me how to be strong and brave, how to go after what I want, and to have grace and a smile on my face while doing it. She told me she helped me so one day in the future I can help others, so that’s exactly what I’ll spend the rest of my life doing.  I’ll be forever thankful for everything Shirley did for me. Until we meet again. 

Shirley and I were best friends from 1987 to 1991 and had so many great times together.  There was not a weekend that went by that we were not subject to end up in Ft. Worth, our favorite place! Due to a silly disagreement and me moving away, we did not remain in contact. There were so many times that I started to pick up the phone or go see Shirley, but the hectic parts of life seemed to always get in the way. In the back of my mind, I believed we would some day be close again, as I truly cared about her. The tragic loss of Shirley on Friday took that chance away in this life. I am so happy that she got to have her law enforcement career; it was all she wanted out of her work life. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of Shirley’s family and friends, and especially my friend, her brother Chris. RIP, Shirley, and I’m sorry we let so much time pass us by.

All human beings are made up of flesh and blood, and some, miracle fibers called courage, honor, character, and integrity, Shirley Lanning was made up of them all. 

As we mourn her loss let us never forget the positive impact she had on all the people in which she came in contact with…those known and unknown. Though we will never be able to replace her dedication to duty, her honor, her integrity, her leadership, and her love and kindness for all, what we can do is continue to remember her by living the high standards she set in life.

Her honor deserves it, her legacy demands it. 

Brian M. O’Leary
CSM, US Army (Retired)


Shirley was an amazing lady.  There will be a hole in our world where she once was. RIP Sweet Lady.

It’s been many years since we saw each other but I am happy to have shared some fun times with Shirley early in our LE careers.  I pray for Shirley’s family and co-workers as they traverse this new life without her. Godspeed, Shirley. 

I just want to say that Shirley was a great friend and such a positive role model! Shirley came with us on our honeymoon along with 20 other people and she was a breath of fresh air! Vanessa and her were so fun and I wouldn’t of wanted anything else! David my heart goes out to you and your family! ❤️❤️❤️

I met Shirley and David at Mercy when I worked there and they were always so kind and genuine. My heart aches for her family.  Sending prayers of strength and comfort for you all. 

My condolences to Shirley’s husband and family.   Shirley was one of the most vibrant people I have worked with.   She always had a smile for you and had the time to visit with you about work related issues, but most importantly she was always willing to discuss life issues as well.   I truly believe every person who came in contact with her came away feeling as though this was a person who truly cared about them.   It was a privilege to have worked with her.   A great officer and person.   Rest In Peace Shirley.   

I’ve known Shirley since 1972 when I started going to school in Carmen.  She was two years ahead of me, her youngest brother Chris and I were in the same class.   The one thing I remember most about Shirley is she never had any enemies.  She was one of those girls that flowed well with everyone.   She marched to the beat of her own drum and always had a smile on her face.  She was a little dingy at times, but aren’t we all?   I was so jealous of her natural blond hair!!!  I hadn’t seen or talked to her in several years but being from such a small town, when you think about those years, you think about everyone you grew up with.  She will be missed.  Go fly high Shirley... you deserve it.   I love you, Karen 

Shirley, We are so extremely blessed to have had you in our lives. You helped to make each one of us a better person for having been touched by your warm smile, playful spirit and unconditional love & support. I will always be thankful for the dedication and commitment you demonstrated to make the Canadian County Sheriff’s Office the best that we could be. 

Until we meet again,

Chris West
Sheriff
CCSO



Throughout the time I was an Assistant District Attorney in Canadian County, I never saw Lt. Lanning once when she wasn't more than eager to do anything to help out, and always her help was given with the brightest smile. She testified in a jury trial of mine once at the very last minute when I yanked her up to tell the jury about something she had seen downstairs...no argument, no panic, no complaint,  she just said "whatever you need". Just like she did anytime anyone needed anything.  I'm so saddened that she has been taken so soon. My prayers and most sincere condolences to her family. 

RIP Lieutenant Lanning. My sympathies to your family, friends and fellow officers. 

Bill Farrell
SFC, US Army MP, Ret

Shirley, I think I would do a great dishonor if I didn't speak as openly as you would like me to speak - or as openly as you would speak.  
You are the reason I was hired at the Oklahoma County Sheriffs Office in 1994.  Back when hiring women and minorities was a tough road.  You went to bat for me with Sheriff Sharp and I responded with 24 years of dedicated service at the OCSO.
I say to you, "Well done, good and faithful servant"...


I want to send my condolences.  I went to school with Shirley and there are no words to express how sorry I am that you are dealing with this loss.   I remember Shirley as  a happy person and always had a kind word.   Prayers for you all!!

As with any law enforcement career, there will be a great deal of both good and bad moments. Most of the time, we fit right in the middle of those extremes; however, we tend to only remember the most dramatic of events. What I can say is that even through disagreements, Shirley's words and influence made a tremendous impact on my life and continue to be a big reason behind where I stand today. I am grateful to have been mentored by you, if only for a short time. I also could not find it more fitting to remember you by carrying forward your ability to lead in practice, and not just with words. After an exhaustive career in police work and acting as a supervisor, Shirley never sat on a podium or demanded entitlement. She was down to earth enough to be there when needed, even if that need was a strap on a bike bag and head out for patrol with the beat officers.

Shirley was a pleasure to be around.  She was a mentor to me and a great law enforcement officer.   She assisted me with search warrants, day to day operations, and always put the needs of others before herself.   Every time she walked into the room with her smile she made everyone's day better.  I will miss her tremendously.   She can never ever be replaced, she will always be with us forever.



Meeting you for the first time, was so warm and inviting. You told me not to be nervous and to just talk to you like I was talking to a friend. I’m deeply saddened, and will miss you dearly. I’ll still look up to you, your spirit lives on through this office. Your laugh, your carrying voice, the small talk conversations that never seemed to end — that we’ll never forget. You were one of a kind Lieutenant. I’m honored to have gotten to know you and work with you this passed year. I’ll never forget your advice, or the uplifting words you’d say on the days that were harder than most. You are and always will be in our hearts.

I met Shirley in 1998 at the Oklahoma Police Academy in OKC. She was well loved by all classmates and instructors. Rest in Peace Shirley you shall be missed.

My heart aches.  I worked with Shirley, but we were also dear friends.  She was made of spit and fire, and we forged our friendship because we were soul sisters.  I will always have a hole in my heart.  Love you, Sister.  Prayers for Shirley's family.  

Shirley and I agreed that law enforcement is a position of public trust. She had prior experience in the conducting of personnel background investigations. Therefore, when I decided to retire from the CCSO in 2016, I recommended Shirley as my replacement. During her brief training period, I observed her to be a quick learner. In conversations during her training, we shared the importance of a thorough personnel background investigation being essential to obtaining the best applicants not only for the CCSO, but for the public safety of our Canadian County citizens.   After my retirement from the CCSO, I would occasionally inquire as to Shirley’s performance.  Every response I received was words of praise.  She was described to me as meticulous in conducting background investigation issues.              
                                                          
REST IN PEACE MY/OUR  CCSO SISTER!

J. Darnell, Lt. Ret. , CCSO

I’ve known Shirley since I was a little girl I was a junior bridesmaid in her wedding. Our families were very close. One thing I remember most about Shirley is her laugh was addictive, her personality was one of the most sweetest personalities I’ve ever known. She was an exceptional person with a huge heart and she was loved by many. My heart aches for her family and I wish I could take their pain away. 

To David and the family words cannot express the loss that you are failing at this time. My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. From her friend Geneva from Dillard's.

I met Shirley almost 4 years ago and we became instant friends, my life was better just by having her in it.  This is a huge loss for many.  Praying for David and all of the family.

Shirley was one of a kind.  I worked with her for the past six years, and she welcomed me to the CCSO when we first met in a police class.  She never acted like she was better than anyone else or bragged about how important she was because of her position.  She would do her best to help with anything.  My thoughts and prayers go out to David, and all of her family.  Look to God for comfort during this time of sorrow.  He is there to help you work through things.

We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers for your family at this difficult time.    Mitch and Linda Payne 

Where do I start? This was the most beautiful person I've ever known inside & out. So kind, full of so much love. Even though she was my step-daughter-in-law I love her.

What a beautiful lady and friend. I loved Shirley and have such good memories. I know Shirley  is  a new Angel  watching over you David. This world is a better place because of all the goodness Shirley did and the love she showed so many of us. 
David you and Shirley have always been there for me and I cherish the memories.
David I wish I had the words to take your pain away. My thoughts and prayers are with you.  

She was kind, caring, and very down to earth.  I was thankful I got to spend two years of high school with her.  Praying for the family. 

OBITUARY

Lt. Shirley Lanning

November 15, 1961 – February 14, 2020

Baggerley Funeral Home

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