Shirley Ann Park, lifelong resident of Independence, Missouri, passed away at the age of 78 surrounded by friends and family on March 4th, 2023.
Shirley Ann Gorman was born in Independence, Missouri to Maxine and Bob Gorman on February 4th, 1945. She had fond memories of her childhood spent playing outside and remembers her parents spoiling her and even getting her a pony for her birthday. As a child, Shirley loved going to California regularly for family vacations. She dearly missed her parents and would reminisce about them often. The best year of Shirley’s life was 1963, the year she graduated from Saint Mary’s High School and got married to her childhood sweetheart Joe Park. Shirley and Joe moved into the house that her dad built and she lived there for over 30 years raising her own kids and grandkids. Shirley was a stay-at-home mom while her kids were young and later worked for Farmers Insurance, retiring after 25 years of service in 2001.
Shirley’s greatest joys in life were her grandkids and great-grandkids. The family would always gather at Shirley and Joe’s house for holidays, where she was known for going over the top with her decorations. The living room would be filled with piles of gifts as shopping was one of her favorite things to do and she loved spoiling her grandkids and great-grandkids. If Shirley wasn’t home, you would likely find her at Wal-Mart, one of her favorite places. She loved eating out with her family; some of her favorites were Big Biscuit, Englewood Cafe, Hereford House, and Tim’s Pizza. Shirley was always blinged out with sparkly shirts, flip flops, and purses. She enjoyed the beach and laying out in the sun, especially in Fort Myers, Florida. Shirley loved her soap operas, Ellen, Judge Judy, and old Elvis movies.
Shirley was known for being brutally honest and was never afraid to tell it like it was. She was never one to hold back about her feelings, especially when it came to President Trump. She laughed all the time and tried to find the humor in everything. She had a big heart, was very giving and was known for being a confidant for her family and friends. Shirley loved animals and at one point had five cats!
Shirley is preceded in death by her husband, Joe Park; her brother, Steve Gorman; and her parents Maxine and Bob Gorman.
Shirley is survived by her children: Kim Sievert, Kelli (Jeff) Harless, Kevin Park; her sister Lori (Darryl) Harding; her beloved grandchildren: Tara (Brett) Lackey, Michael (Amber) Brooks, Jeffrey (Meredith) Harless, Adam Sievert, and Emilee Harless; her great-grandchildren: Kaden Brooks, Piper Brooks, Brayden Lackey, Bennett Lackey, and Charlee Harless; and, of course, her cat Charlie.
A celebration of life will be held at the Optimist Club of Sugar Creek, 11600 E US Hwy 24 Sugar Creek, MO 64054 on Sunday, March 26th from 3:00-6:00 PM. Please wear your Chiefs attire to honor Shirley and her love for the Chiefs!
In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local animal shelter in her memory.
Obituary submitted by the family.
Arrangements: Royer’s New Salem Funeral Home Independence, MO (816) 796-8600