Shirley Ann Witherspoon

It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of our beloved Shirley Ann Witherspoon. Born on March 12, 1950, in Hope, Arkansas, Shirley departed this world peacefully on July 16, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. Shirley was the cherished daughter of the late Thurman Sr. and Eddie Mae Lindsey. She was predeceased by her dear brothers, Ira West and Thurman Lindsey Jr.; her sister, Nora Finley; and a beloved great-grandchild. Her legacy lives on through her surviving family members who she leaves to cherish her memory: her two devoted daughters, Shannon Watson of Texarkana, Arkansas, and Latoya Lee of Hope, Arkansas; her loving son, Sebastian Lindsey of Fort Worth, Texas; and her five sisters, Brenda Charles, Jackie Warren, and Eileen Johnson of Hope, Arkansas, Evelyn Hill (Brian) of McNab, Arkansas, and Katie Beavers of Texarkana, Arkansas. She is also survived by her four brothers, Berry Randle (Velma), Tommy Lindsey (Shirley), Booker Lindsey (Lisa), and Glendale Lindsey (Joslyn), all of Hope, Arkansas. A proud mother and grandmother, Shirley was blessed with eight grandchildren—Jacoby Martin (Aijalon), Jacody Horton, Nastacia Horton, Chasity Ogden, Jacquil Robinson (Debbie), Jaquasha Phillips, Ashley Ogden, Timothy Ross Jr.—and 36 great-grandchildren, as well as two great-great-grandchildren. Shirley’s family was her greatest joy, and her love and guidance will continue to be a beacon for them. She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will forever hold her in their hearts. Shirley attended Henry C. Yerger High School in Hope, Arkansas, and graduated with the Class of 1968. Throughout her career, she was a dedicated employee of Champion Parts and Meyers Bakery, where she worked diligently until her retirement. Her colleagues remember her as a committed and reliable worker, as well as a friend. A woman of deep faith, Shirley accepted Christ at an early age under the leadership of Elder O.N. Dennis at the Pentecostal Temple Church (COGIC). Her spiritual journey was a testament to her enduring strength and compassion. The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Enhabit Health Hospice for their compassionate care. "Dear Enhabit Health Hospice, the way you cared for our Mother, Sister, grandmother, and Aunt isn’t just admirable, it’s life-changing. Thank you for caring with your whole heart and seeing them beyond their illness. Special thanks to Katie and Jane." A celebration of Shirley’s life will be held on July 25, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Rising Star Baptist Church, located at 1002 E Beech Street, Hope, AR, 71801. Friends and family are invited to gather and honor the beautiful life Shirley lived. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity of your choice in Shirley's honor. Her generous spirit and unwavering love will forever be remembered and cherished by all whose lives she touched. May her soul rest in eternal peace.