Shirley Elizabeth Thompkins, 86, a resident of St. Cloud, Florida, went to be with her Lord and Savior on December 26, 2023. She was born on September 1, 1937, to Sam Kemp and Betty Bryant.
Shirley was a devoted christian woman and a lifelong Osceola County, fifth generation, pioneer family resident. Some of Shirley’s fondest memories were growing up in Campbell Station with her brother Ken Kemp. Sharing these adventures brought an abundance of joy to her and her family.
Shirley retired after thirty years of employment with Osceola County Road and Bridge Department. She was also a member of the Osceola County Historical Society. Shirley had a love of Florida history as well as a love of Bluegrass and Folk music. She was blessed with a beautiful voice and loved to sing.
Shirley is survived by her daughter Brenda Partin, the light of her life; two step-granddaughters: Erica Partin of Yeehaw Junction and Leah Yates of St. Cloud; and three great-grandchildren: Lachlan Thomas, Trent Yates, and Laina Yates.
Shirley will always be remembered for her infectious laughter and beautiful, heartwarming smile. She was a sweet soul, full of love and shared kindness with everyone.
Shirley was very fond of dragonflies. In the biblical context, dragonflies symbolize the ability to navigate life’s challenges gracefully and they have a strong affinity for light. Along with that, dragonflies are a symbol of change and their transformations teach us to love life, to rejoice always, and to have faith amidst difficulties. We now understand why she loved dragonflies so much. Shirley shared her grace, light, love, and faith with so many. Shirley had a life well lived.
Visitation for family and friends will be 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, December 29, 2023 at the Roger C. Thompson Memorial Chapel, Conrad & Thompson Funeral Home.
Graveside funeral services for Shirley will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, December 30, 2023, at the Kenansville Cemetery with the Reverend David Wallace, First Missionary Baptist Church, Kenansville, Florida, Officiating. Active casketbearers will be: Glenn Bass, Mike Chandler, Lachlan Thomas, Trent Yates, Keith Rex and Shane Hancock.