Shirley Jean Upton

Shirley Jean Upton, 82, went to her heavenly home on Friday, September 27, 2024 in Glenwood, AR. She was a beloved sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend. Shirley was born November 30, 1941 to Arthur and Arlie Dunkerson in Fanshawe, OK. She spent much of her youth in Eagles Nest, New Mexico before moving back to spend the remainder of her years in Oklahoma and Arkansas. She will be remembered for her love of the Lord and her family. Shirley worked as an LPN for over 20 years in the nursing home. She was an ordained preacher and member of many churches throughout her life, the most recent being the Full Gospel Pentecostal Church in Norman, AR. She was also a proud member of The Order of the Eastern Star. She was an excellent seamstress and avid writer of poetry and songs. Shirley felt her greatest achievements were that of being a minister, a mother, wife, and nurse. 

She is survived by her sister LaVon Jordan, children Arthur David Upton and wife Carol Upton, Richard Upton and wife Mary Upton, stepdaughter Terra Bush and husband James Bush. Grandchildren Brandy, John, James, Cheyanne, Abby, Chelsea, Sierra, Nathan, Vanessa, and Rachel as well as many great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and a host of friends. She is preceded in death by her husband Charles Upton, her parents Arthur and Arlie Dunkerson, sisters Norma Ann Gose, Elois Gregory, Dena Marie Dunkerson, Thalma Louise Dunkerson, brothers Carl Dunkerson, Earl Dunkerson, Ray Leon Dunkerson, and granddaughter Courtney Upton. 

Shirley would want her family and friends to rejoice with her as she goes home to be with the Lord. 

Visitation will be Wednesday, October 2, 2024 from 6 to 8 pm and the service will be on Thursday, October 3, 2024 at 10 am both at Smith Family Funeral in Glenwood, AR. Shirley will be laid to rest at Black Springs Cemetery in Black Springs, AR.

Guest Registry can be found at www.smithfamilycares.com