It is with profound sadness that the family of Shirley Jo Lewis Bohannon announces her passing on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at her home in Sikeston, Missouri. At the time of her passing she was surrounded by her family that loved her so dearly.

Shirley was born in New Madrid, Missouri on March 24, 1936, to Lester and Gladys Schultz Lewis. She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother Richard Lewis and the father of her children, Donald R. Bohannon.

She is survived by one son, Michael L. Bohannon (Kathy) of Sikeston, Missouri and one daughter Nancy Bohannon Blackburn of Overland Park, Kansas, four grandchildren, Charlie Bohannon (Annie), Natalie Coppage (Sam), Patrick Blackburn (Molly) and Lauren Blackburn and three great grandchildren.

She was a 1954 graduate of Sikeston High School. She was a proud member of the Red Peppers, marching band and school choir. She also attended Southeast Missouri State University. Shirley was a member of the United Methodist Church in Sikeston. She had a lifelong love of music and playing the piano that she enjoyed up until the end of her life.

Her greatest joy came from being a mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She was the best Mother to her two children, offering love and support in all of life’s special moments, and a cherished and loving “Nana” to her four grandchildren. She was blessed to watch her grandchildren grow up and to meet her three great grandchildren these past two years.

Shirley worked as a legal secretary for several years for the Blanton Law firm in Sikeston and as an administrative assistant for IAC Services in Prairie Village, Kansas. She took great pride in her shorthand and organizational skills. She had a wonderful way with words and had a fantastic sense of humor. Her ability to laugh often and with others was a hallmark of her special personality.

The family would especially like to thank her wonderful caregiver these past few years, Ms. Sharon Washer, who blessed Shirley with the greatest of care, love, and support.

Shirley will be dearly missed by the many friends and family members who loved her so very, very much. May her sweet soul forever rest in peace.

Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. until time for the memorial service at 6:00 p.m., Thursday, September 17, 2026, at the First United Methodist Church in Sikeston.

A private interment will follow.

The family kindly requests memorial contributions be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

McMikle Funeral Home of Sikeston is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences may be shared at www.mcmiklefuneralhome.com