Shirley Marie Lucas

Shirley Marie (Casler) Cates / Lucas, 96, of DeSoto, KS passed away June 23, 2022. Shirley was born in Kansas City, MO, the oldest daughter of Lindsley W. and Eleanor Marie Casler. From birth to age 80, she lived in Kansas City, MO, Shawnee and Lenexa, KS. When she was 80 she moved to Parsons, KS where she lived for nine years. Since 2014, her home has been Hillside Village of DeSoto.

Shirley graduated from Central High School in 1942. Although Shirley was not a “career woman,” in addition to caring for her home and raising her children, she worked outside the home in a time before doing so was the norm. Not only did she support her family and church, but wherever she saw need, she did not hesitate to extend herself to lend a hand. Shirley was an avid reader and great at word games. Shirley became a creative writer in her 80s; one of her stories was published in the Parsons Sun. She loved traveling and especially enjoyed connecting with old and new friends and family. She loved everyone and was loved by all in return.

Shirley was preceded in death by her sisters, Beverly Jean Mills and Lois (Sugar) Slaymaker / Richards, her husbands, Carl Cates and George Lucas, and her late-life companion, Bob Love. She is survived by her daughters, Pat Benson and Carlie Hanson, and son, Michael Cates; stepdaughter, Patsy (Kenny) Allenbrand; and stepson, Ron (Linda) Lucas; eight grandchildren, Melodie Brouhard, Christy Auvigne, Matthew Cates, Jennifer Harbin, Jayma Zook, Junelle Woolery, Renee Devine, and Gillette Woodward. She is also survived by ten great-grandchildren.

A private family visitation and brief graveside service was held June 30 at Floral Hills.

An informal gathering to celebrate Shirley's life and legacy will be held Aug. 4, 2022, at 6:00 PM. Friends and family are welcome to come to visit, share fond memories, and honor Shirley in this manner. The family has designated St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital for memorial contributions. (ref: #23016402 if mailing)

For details and directions to the celebration, please contact Pat, Mike, or Patsy.

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