Shirley Annette Bly, age 54, of Mulberry, left our world unexpectedly on July 30, 2020. A perfect Christmas miracle, she was born December 25, 1965 in Springdale, Arkansas, to the late Delmer "Shorty" Bly and Anna Mae (Black) Bly.

Shirley had a heart of gold that she wasn't afraid to wear on her sleeve. She spread love and joy to everyone she met, and she energized the room with her infectious laugh, carefree spirit, and lighthearted humor. Even during dark times, her hope and positivity shed light on the world and those around her. She was a loving mother, sister, aunt, and friend to countless people, and her one-of-a-kind spirit will live on within us all.

Including her parents, Shirley was preceded in death by her brothers, Richard Clayborn and Jerry Dale Clayborn; sister, Nina Patrick; and special brother-in-law, Lonnie McKinney, whom she devoted her final year to caring for.

She is survived by her only child, Trevor Stewart of Lawrence, KS; six sisters, Vicki McKinney of Mulberry, Tami Zolliecoffer-Mason of Fort Smith, Joyce Harris of Wichita Falls, TX, Sue Marvel of Clarksville, Judy Ingram of Grove, OK, Jeanie Clayborn of New Boston, TX; brother, Jimmy Clayborn of Rudy; as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends who cherished her life. Though she is no longer with us, Shirley would turn our tears into laughter and our mourning into rejoicing. Let her never be forgotten!

A memorial celebration of Shirley's life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, August 8, 2020, at Rankin Cemetery near Mulberry.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Brotherton Brothers Cremation Service in Fort Smith, 914 N. 32nd St. Fort Smith, AR  72903. (479) 434-3901.

To pay an online tribute, please visit www.brothertonbrothersfuneralhomes.com . and go to our new Facebook page, Brotherton Brothers Cremation Service and click "Like and Share" Thank You