Shirley A. Small, 88, Marion, passed away at 11:43 pm on Friday, October 17, 2025, at St. Vincent Hospital and Health Services in Indianapolis. She was born in Harrison County, Kentucky, on Monday, March 1, 1937, to Floyd and Edna "Cookie" (Lanter) Davis. On July 21, 1956, she married James R.F. Small, Sr.
She spent many years working at Marion Health before moving on to the VA, where she eventually retired. She loved being part of First Pentecostal Church in Marion and rarely missed a Sunday. A trip to Walmart was always a treat, and she could spend hours working on puzzles. Elvis Presley was her favorite-his music was always playing in the background. But more than anything, she loved her family. They were her whole world..
Survivors include her daughters, Katherine "Kathy" Small, Rebecca "Becky" A. Mangus, Lillian Sue Davis, Shirley R. Frank; along with several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd D. and Edna "Cookie" K Davis; husband, James R.F. Small, Sr.; sons, James R. Small, Stephen Grise; grandson, James R.F. Small II; and sister, Wanda Kay Herring.
The family will receive visitors from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm on Friday, October 24, 2025, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.
Immediately following the time of visitation, a service to celebrate Shirley's life will begin at 6:00 pm with Pastor David Fincher officiating.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
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