Shirley Marie Andersol n, 84, of Peculiar, Missouri, passed away on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at St. Joseph Medical Center in Kansas City, MO. A funeral service was held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at the Atkinson Funeral Home in Harrisonville, MO. Interment in Orient Cemetery, Harrisonville, MO. Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Heart Association or Wayside Waifs Animal Shelter.

Born on May 2, 1942, in Kansas City, Missouri, Shirley was the daughter of the late James and Joy (Harris) Messmer. She attended Rock Ford Rural School, where she laid the foundation for her lifelong love of learning and community involvement.

On January 15, 1966, in Peculiar, MO, Shirley married the love of her life, Houston Anderson. Their union was a testament to devotion, resilience, and shared moments filled with laughter and love. Together, they raised a family that brought joy and pride to her heart. Shirley was a devoted mother to her children, Tommy and Dedra. After her father's death in 1974, she took care of her mother until her passing in 2000.Shirley embodied the spirit of service and community. She served as the President of Boy Scout Troop 3 Mother's SOS (Serving Our Scouts) Patrol for four years, contributed her time as an election poll judge, and was an active member of the Women's Fashion Club. Her faith was a guiding force in her life, and she found solace and support as a member of Freeman Baptist Church. In addition, she shared her talents as an Avon Representative, brightening the lives of those around her.

Her love for life was evident in her passion for gardening, canning, baking, and preparing meals for family gatherings. Shirley had a special fondness for flowers and took great pleasure in nurturing her garden. She also had a talent for making quilts and doing needle work. Each spring, she eagerly awaited the return of the hummingbirds, taking joy in watching them and feeding them.Shirley is preceded in death by her parents and her siblings: Robert Messmer, David Messmer, Ramen Messmer, Frank Messmer, Bertha May Loyd, and Rachel Roberg. She is survived by her husband, Houston Anderson; her children: Tommy (Hope) Anderson of Louisburg, KS; and Dedra (Dale) Boggs of Wamego, KS; her grandchildren: Grayson Anderson of Tokyo, Japan; Paige (Jack) Beadles of Rogers, AR; Rebecca (Larry) Gliniecki of Junction City, KS; Mitchel (Elise) Boggs of Salina, KS; great-grandchildren: Ava Gliniecki; Lincoln and Charlotte Boggs; and many nieces, nephews, and other family members.

In this time of sorrow, let us reflect on Shirley's remarkable life and the love she shared, keeping her spirit alive in our hearts. Her compassion, dedication, and unwavering love will forever remain a guiding light for those who knew her.

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