Shirley Cornelius

Shirley “Shirme” Jean Cornelius, 92, went to be with her Lord and Savior on February 25, 2022. She was born on December 30, 1929 to Ray and Doris (Vallier) Chamberlain in San Diego, California. She lived an adventurous life as a young girl. She grew up all over Texas as the daughter of a Border Patrol Officer.

Her greatest joy in life were her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She loved spending time with family and never missed a chance to beat her grandchildren at card games. She often reminded us to tell family and friends you love them daily.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Carl; brother, Robbie; sisters, Gloria and Diedra; brother-in-law, Joe Buck; daughter, Punky; and three grandchildren, Shanyn, Jon Bryan, and Cara. She is survived by sons, Buddy Word and wife, Dorothy, of Forth Worth; Chipper Word of Abilene; Richard Word of New Mexico; Mike Hale and wife, Becky, of Arkansas; daughter, Cindi and husband, Keith, of Abilene, ten grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren, four great-great grandchildren, and many extended family

A funeral service will be 10:00 AM, Friday, March 4, 2022, in the Elmwood Funeral Home Chapel, 5750 Hwy 277 South.  The interment will be at the Texas State Veterans Cemetery at Abilene.