Shirley Ann Martin

Shirley Ann Martin, daughter of Marion Willie Watson and Delsie Gay Watson (Reed), was born on January 31, 1958, in Arkansas City, Kansas. She departed this life on February 26, 2025, at the age of 67, surrounded by her loving family in her home in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, just as she had always wanted.

Shirley was a remarkable woman who loved everyone she met. She had a gift for connecting with people and would often strike up conversations with strangers. A devout Christian, Shirley had unwavering faith in God and lived her life according to her values.

After working at a nursing home, Shirley dedicated herself to raising her two daughters as a stay-at-home mom. She was also a dedicated Sunday school teacher at the Tahlequah Church of the Nazarene, where she nurtured the spiritual growth of young children. Shirley's compassion and empathy led her to make prayer calls, offering support and comfort to those in need.

Shirley married the love of her life, William Martin on February 16, 1991, and they shared a deep and abiding love for each other. Together, they created a life filled with joy, laughter, and adventure. They cherished every moment spent together and were each other's rock. Their love and commitment to each other were an inspiration to all who knew them.

In her free time, Shirley enjoyed watching her favorite soap operas, playing Wahoo, and sharing her love of cooking and baking with her granddaughter. She also delighted in singing with her grandchildren and reading books together, creating cherished memories that will be treasured forever. She was a pillar of strength, bravery, and compassion, always offering wise counsel and a listening ear.

Shirley's greatest joys in life were her family and her faith. She prioritized them above all else, and her love and devotion inspired those around her. As a wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Shirley was unparalleled. Her grandkids brought her immense joy, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

Shirley's impact on those around her was profound, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Marion and Delsie Watson; her brothers, Jerry Watson, John Thomas Watson, and Johnny Watson; her sister, Barbara Roach (Watson); and many other dear friends and family members.

Those left to cherish Shirley's memory include her husband, William Martin; her daughters, Kimberly and Kristina Martin; her grandchildren, Aria Martin and Otto Kirk; Anthony Kirk, whom she lovingly referred to as her son; and Laura Odom, whom she considered her adopted daughter. She is also survived by her brothers, Leroy Montgomery, Richard Watson, and Datin Watson, as well as numerous family members and friends who will always treasure her memory.

A memorial service for Shirley will be held Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Church of the Nazarene, 20443 East Allen Road, Tahlequah, Oklahoma.