Shirley Mae Mackie Earwood, age 87, of Neosho, Missouri, passed away on Thursday, October 8, 2026.

Shirley was born on May 5, 1939, in Attica, Kansas, to Alexander “Alex” W. Mackie and Mamie W. Pond Mackie.

She spent her earliest years in Attica before her family moved to Wichita, Kansas. During her youth, she also lived in Olathe, Kansas. These communities were part of the beginnings of a life that would eventually take her to southwest Missouri.

Shirley was the granddaughter of Dr. Elonzo Aldridge Pond, a veterinarian, and Florence Strong Pond. Her family roots extended through the Mackie, Pond, and Strong families, whose history and traditions remain an important part of her family's heritage.

Shirley married Clyde Winn Earwood and made her home in the Neosho area, where she spent much of her adult life. She also lived for a time in Cassville, Missouri. Clyde preceded her in death on January 15, 1997.

Throughout her 87 years, Shirley witnessed a changing world and experienced the many seasons of life. From her childhood in Kansas to her later years in Missouri, she carried a story uniquely her own.

Her family is fortunate to have photographs preserving special moments throughout her life—from her earliest childhood portraits to photographs of her as a young woman and in her later years. These treasured images offer a lasting connection to Shirley and the generations of family history of which she was a part.

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, Clyde Winn Earwood; her mother, Mamie W. Pond Mackie, on December 15, 1974; and her father, Alexander “Alex” W. Mackie, on June 10, 1981.

She leaves behind an extended family who will preserve her memory and her place in their shared family history.

Though every chapter of a person's life may not be known to those who come after, every life has meaning and deserves to be remembered. Shirley's story will live on through the photographs, family connections, and memories that remain.

May Shirley rest in peace, lovingly remembered as a daughter, wife, cousin, and cherished member of the Mackie and Pond families.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, October 23, 2026 at 10:00 AM at Oakwood Cemetery in Neosho, Missouri.