Shirley J. Ball

Shirley J. Ball, born on August 4th, 1941, in Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on June 7th, 2023, in Kansas City at the age of 81. Shirley lived a beautiful life that was filled with love, joy, passion, and purpose.

Growing up in Kansas City to Cecil Smith (father) and Ann Joann White (mother), Shirley developed her personality as the matriarch of her family. She always emphasized the importance of family values and cherishing relationships with loved ones. It’s no surprise that Shirley’s greatest joy in life was spending time with her grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.

Shirley served honorably in the United States Navy from 1959 to 1962. She then taught Physical Science in the Kearney school district, earning her Master’s Degree in EducationAdministration before retiring. After retirement, Shirley went on to become a Special Education substitute teacher for the North Kansas City School District. Her commitment to education shows how much she valued knowledge and believed in the power of learning.

Shirley's hobbies included sewing, crocheting, and taking summer vacations with her family to state parks and campsites. She created many memories that will be cherished by all who shared those moments with her.

Shirley leaves behind many beloved people including Walter F. Ball (her husband of 61 years), her daughters: Cheryl Naylor, Teresa (James) Harter, Alicia (Joshua) Taylor ; two grandsons: Joel Michael McFadden, Michael (Emilee) Naylor; five great-grandchildren: Ale Taylor, Mason Taylor, Willow Naylor, Emerson Naylor, and Easton Naylor, and ​her sister Jerretta(Jerry) Naylor; sister in law: Violet Bufford; nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews . She was preceded in death by her father: Cecil Smith, mother: Ann Joann White, and brothers: James and Jerry Smith, her nephews Jerry Dean Smith, James Edward Bufford, and Darrell Gene Bufford.