Shirley Celestia Grogan was escorted through the gates of Heaven on the evening of May 23, 2016, from her home in Dogwood with her family by her side to see her off on her journey. The last month before her departure has been filled with precious moments of reconnecting and reminiscing with family and friends through many tears of laughter but also a few of sadness. Today we celebrate and rejoice in knowing that she is forever at home.

Shirley's earthly pilgrimage began in East Prairie on September 5, 1938 to Laverne and Milburn Powell. A few years later, God sent William "Red" Nall into her life to love and father her. She was the oldest of six children: one sister, Lucy Nall Slaten; four brothers, Terry, Dobbins, Rickie, and Wendy Nall. All of whom have kept a close and cherished bond throughout their lives.

Shirley leaves the love of her life James W. Grogan to hold dear their memories from 60 years of marriage. Him being a country boy from Dorena and her from the bustling metropolis of East Prairie, JW always jokingly referred to her as his "city girl". They spent their lives being God's perfect example of how a man and woman should love and devote themselves to one another and nurture a Christian home. JW and Shirley raised their three girls in a Godly home in East Prairie. Along with her husband to cherish her memories, she leaves behind daughters and son-in-laws, Cindy and Tim Williams and DeeDee and Mark Douglas; grandsons and families, Chadd and Heather (Dalton, Britton, Haiden) Thomas, Price and Kathryn (Kason) Heppe, Jon and Bailee Dumbacher , Mason Douglas, Davon Douglas; and only granddaughter, Miste and Clay (Sam and Ella) Hahs as well as too numerous to name family, friends, and church family.

Awaiting Shirley for her homecoming in Heaven are her parents, her daughter, Debbie Grogan Dumbacher, and her grandson Jami Grogan. Several other family and friends are there for the celebration as well.

Whether it was making sure everyone had something to eat or drink, spoiling grandkids, skiing and fishing at the lake, or even in a Powder Puff stock car race, Shirley always brought a smile and laughter to those around her. She was frequently seen working in the kitchen at church, singing in the choir, attending the Ladies' Bible Study, and a life-long member of the Crusaders for Christ Sunday School class whom was very dear to her heart. Shirley had a passion for the church's food pantry and a desire to keeping it going.

Shirley's family wants to take this occasion to thank the many friends for the kindness that has been given. In the past few weeks, our family has been brought together to renew our love as we pray and care for Shirley and remember how much she has affected our lives.

Prior to visiting with friends, the family will gather at First Baptist at 4:00 on Wednesday evening. Friends are invited to a visitation with the family from 5:00-8:00 on Wednesday evening, May 25, 2016, at the First Baptist Church in East Prairie, and the celebration of Shirley's life will be conducted at 10:00 a.m.,Thursday,May 26, 2016, at First Baptist Church with interment and graveside service to follow at the East Prairie Memorial Park Cemetery.

McMikle Funeral Home of Charleston is in charge of arrangements.

Contributions in memory of Shirley may be directed to the food pantry at the First Baptist Church of East Prairie.


Online condolences may be shared at www.mcmiklefuneralhome.com