Shirley Mae Walton

Shirley Mae Walton went home to be with the Lord on March 30, 2026. Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 1929, Shirley carried rare grace and fortitude from a young age. As she learned and grew, she worked and helped care for her family. She developed the strength, wisdom, and resilience that would become the essence of her beautiful life.

Her journey eventually led her to Joliet, Illinois. It was there that she met her devoted husband, Virgil, and together they raised their three children. Beyond the walls of her home, Shirley cultivated lifelong friendships and became a true staple of the community. She touched countless lives through her professional work in both banking and education, as well as through her steadfast commitment and service in her church.

An avid reader and lover of music, Shirley found great joy in getting lost in a book, lifting her voice in song, or relaxing while listening to the classic sounds of Billy Eckstine. She delighted in the company of others, and cherished her roles as a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Shirley’s life was a testament to her limitless love, grace, and compassion, anchored in her reverent love of God.

Family

Shirley was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Virgil Melvin Walton; her son, Darnell Lemoyne Walton; her parents, Paul and Omie Carson; and her siblings, Paul Jr., Robert, Frank, Gloria Dean, and William.

She is survived by her son, Virgil 'Skip' Melvin Walton Jr. (Cheryl); her daughter, Marsha Evonne Harris (Harry Jr.); and her daughter-in-law, Gardenia Walton. Her legacy continues through her three grandchildren, Marcus Aaron Walton, Nathan Ryan Harris, and Megan Elyse Chestnut, as well as her four great-grandchildren.

Services

A viewing for immediate family will be held at Olinger Cemetery in Thornton, Colorado, on April 18, 2026.

A homegoing ceremony celebrating Shirley’s life will be held at Second Baptist Church in Joliet, Illinois, on May 30, 2026.