Shirley Ann Pickens, age 85, of Gladstone, Michigan passed away surrounded by family on Friday, May 10, 2024.
Shirley was born December 3, 1938 in Eldorado, Illinois, the daughter of Elbridge and Catherine (Johnson) Pickens. She worked as an Administrative Secretary for the United States Navy in Washington, DC for many years later retiring from the IRS in Evansville, Indiana. She was an independent yet influential female to her family, with many artistic abilities and a loving of painting. Shirley had many beloved pets over the years, and being an avid reader she spent much time curled up with her pets and a book.
Shirley is survived by her sister, Kimberly Dale; nieces and nephews, Roger Utley Jr., Jamie Utley, Jeff Pickens, Catherine Alexander, Matt Dale, Sara Larson, Hannah Arkens, niece-in-law Lana Utley, and their families; numerous friends around the country and her dog, Lola.
She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, Jerry (Roger Sr.) Utley and David (Deanna) Pickens, brother-in-law, Kenneth Dale and a nephew, Danny Utley.
All are welcome to join the family for a memorial service on Friday, May 24 at 5:00 PM at the Covenant Church in Gladstone with a dinner to follow at 5:30 PM.
Nancy L. Smith - Gladstone, MI
Shirley was a very good friend to me. I told her things I wouldn’t tell anyone else. In her quiet way, she was very wise. I will miss all our fun times together. Go with God, my friend!
Joe Weyer - Evansville, IN
It’s sad to learn about Shirley’s passing. My wife and I lived next door to her in Evansville during the 90’s and really enjoyed her being our neighbor and friend.
J. Weyer
Nancy L. Smith - Gladstone, MI
Shirley was a close friend of mine. In her quiet way she was very wise. I admired her many accomplishments and talents. I will miss her wise counsel and the good times we had together, and the many cups of tea!
Nancy Smith - Gladstone, MI
I will miss you, Shirley. You were one of my closest friends. In your quiet way, you were very wise. I will miss your wise counsel and all the fun times we had together, along with our many cups of tea!
Lorna Benson - Gladstone , MI
Dearest Kim and family:
I never really had the opportunity to know Shirley, and that saddens me. I heard about her many times through Melva Goodman.
But Kim, I know how much you loved her and cared for her. You were a constant in her life.
May you feel overwhelmed by God’s love in the hearts and hands of family and friends….I only wish I were well enough to be there for you.
But I will be and am in spirit.
You are so dear to me and I miss you.
With loving thoughts for strength, and whatever else you may need.
Much love