Shirley Ann Tegarden, 85, of Neosho, Missouri, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2025. Born on December 21, 1939, in Muskogee, Oklahoma, she was the daughter of Earl and Bessie Goodman.

Shirley's life was one of warmth, generosity, and quiet strength. She married the love of her life, Charles Tegarden, on June 14, 1975, in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Together, they shared 50 beautiful years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and deep devotion.

She worked for several years at the Singer Sewing Machine Company and was known as an accomplished seamstress whose hands could turn fabric into works of art. Shirley was also a dedicated servant in her faith community, teaching Sunday School and Bible School for many years with kindness and patience.

Shirley was a woman of many passions. She was an avid crappie fisher, a devoted fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, and never turned down a good game of Skip-Bo. Her love for Elvis Presley was well known by those who knew her best. She gave her time freely, volunteering with the Newcomers Club and Meals on Wheels.

She is survived by her loving daughters, Debbie De Serisy of Lowell, Arkansas, and Melissa Taulbee of Dunnefellow, Florida, her daughter-in-law Cathy Stroup of Ft. Gibson, Oklahoma, and many grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her son, Mike Stroup of Fort Gibson, Oklahoma.

Shirley will be remembered for her giving heart, her quick wit, and the many lives she touched with her kindness and care. Her legacy of love and faith will continue to live on in all who knew her.

Services are under the personal care and direction of Clark Funeral Homes.