Shirley Willcox

Shirley Ann Willcox passed away Wednesday, May 13, 2020 at the age of 74 after a long struggle with Parkinson’s disease and Corona Virus.

Shirley was born March 17, 1946 to the late Lee Vern Free and Floy Odane Starr. Shirley loved the Lord and His church and her family. She will be remembered for her involvement in church events, whether it be welcoming new members, opening her home, or organizing fellowship events. She loved sewing, singing and writing skits to entertain at various functions. These abilities were cut short by Parkinson’s disease. Yet Shirley struggled to do everything that she possibly could. Shirley was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and daughter and was dearly loved by her family and friends.

The family expressed their gratitude to the many doctors, nurses and therapists who have assisted Shirley over the years.

Shirley is preceded in death by her parents; brother, Bobby Morris Free; and sister, Irma Lee Wallace.

Survivors include her husband of 55 years, Berry James “Jim” Willcox, Jr.; three children and families, Rob and Chris Willcox, daughters, Brittanie and Brianna; Scott and Kris Willcox, children, Audrey and Calvin; and Christie and Ben Bailey, children, Nathan and Hannah; brothers, Jack Free and wife, Patsy, Dennis Free and wife, Ruth; sister, Vickie Williams and husband, Steve; sister-in-law, Sara Riley; numerous nieces and nephews.

The family requests donations to either the Parkinson’s Voice Project or the Brown Trail School of Preaching.

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Saturday, May 30, 2020 at Smith-North Little Rock Funeral Home. A graveside service will be follow at 11:00 a.m. at Calvary Cemetery, Little Rock Arkansas.

State of AR COVID-19 directives: Face coverings required at all times (not provided by funeral home).  Fifty attendees or less.  Maintain social distancing. No hugs or handshakes please.