Shirley Ann Nelson

Shirley Ann Nelson, 90, of Russellville, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2026, surrounded by love. With her, she took a piece of our hearts, leaving behind a legacy of love and creativity that will continue to inspire us.

Born on October 21, 1935, in Muncie, Indiana, Shirley was the daughter of Cleman Leach Rusher and Thelma Lucille Conger. She married the love of her life, Charles Franklin Nelson, on September 19, 1952, in Muncie. Together they built a life centered on family, sharing many happy years until his passing in 1992.

Shirley, a loving and supportive mother, was a beacon of strength and resilience. Shirley devoted her life to caring for others and was a steady source of love, strength, and encouragement to those around her. She especially loved children and served as a substitute teacher, where she made a lasting impact through her kindness and patience.

She found joy in life’s simple pleasures—reading, watching game shows, gardening, cooking, and working on crafts. Above all, Shirley cherished her family. In her own words, “My family has been my greatest passion in life.” That love was evident in everything she did, and it remains her enduring legacy.

A woman of quiet faith, Shirley was a member of the Disciples of Christ and lived her life with humility, compassion, and devotion.

Shirley is survived by her children, Charles Franklin Nelson, Jr.(Susan), Sherry Ann Graham (Joe), Tina Lee Crampton (Charlie), Diana Joy Stolarz (Tom), and Terry June Nelson (Mike); her grandchildren, Adrian Nelson, John Nelson, Charla Leatherman, Sarah Graham, Katie Leyes, Erin Graham, Chad Crampton, Craig Crampton, Jessica Gillingham, Christina Byram, Amanda Fil, and Rachel Ruiz; 17 great-grandchildren; and many other beloved family members and friends who will carry her memory forward.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Franklin Nelson; her parents; her sisters, Sylvia McIntire and Betty Jo Huber; and her grandsons, Charles Franklin Nelson III and Joshua Nelson.

A memorial celebration will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. at the home of her daughter, Diana Stolarz (109 Marissa Drive, Russellville, AR 72802). A private committal service will be held at the new Chapel of Light at the J.
Herman Humphrey Dignity Cremation Center by Humphrey Funeral Service. Internet
obituary and on-line guest book are available at www.humphreyfuneral.com.

The family wishes to thank those who cared for Shirley at Russellville Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in her final days.

We are comforted knowing that she is at peace and that her spirit will continue to guide us. We invite you to share your memories of Shirley, upload photos, and celebrate the life of this extraordinary woman on her memorial page. Let's come together to remember her compassionate spirit, her creative soul, and the love she had for all of us.