Hugh Leroy "Lee" Shirley

Hugh Leroy “Lee” Shirley, 79, of Olive Branch, MS, passed away Wednesday, January 29, 2014, at Baptist Trinity Hospice House in Collierville, TN. Lee was born in Hugoton, KS where he lived until he joined the U.S Air Force. While in the Air Force, he attended college and was graduated from Mississippi State University. After retirement, he earned his Master’s degree from University of Arkansas. For his entire career, Lee worked for the U.S. Government and Department of Defense in Civilian Personnel. With his work he had the opportunity to live in NC, GA, at the West Point Military Academy, Korea and concluded his career as Civilian Personnel Director in Panama. Lee was a member of Kirby Woods Baptist Church. Lee was an avid golfer and member of Wedgewood Golf Course. He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Ellen Robinson Shirley; daughter, Lisa Shirley Turman; and grandson, William Darby Turman, all of Olive Branch; brother, Bob Shirley, of Tulsa; and sister, Patsy Butel of Paola, KS. He was preceded in death by his parents, Orval John Shirley and Edith Shirley Miller; sisters, Doris Shirley and Joann Drew; and brothers, Ross Shirley and O.J. Shirley. His service will be held Sunday, February 2, 2014, at Kirby Woods Baptist Church, 6325 Poplar Ave., Memphis, TN. Visitation will begin at 1:00pm with service immediately following at 2:00 pm. A private burial will be held at West Tennessee Veterans Cemetery. Memorials may be sent to Kirby Woods Baptist Church, Baptist Trinity Hospice House, or charity of choice.