Shirley Springer
Shirley Ruth Springer, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully on Jan. 28, 2024, in Abilene at the age of 85.
Family and friends gathered to celebrate her life Friday, Feb. 2, at The Means Methodist Church in Andrews with Pastor Robert Pase officiating. Burial was in the Andrews County North Cemetery under the direction of McNett Funeral Home.
Born on Oct. 24, 1938, in Hamilton to Waldemar and Sophie Huse Wenzel, Shirley was an only child who brought immense joy and light to her parents’ lives.
Shirley’s early education began in a quaint two-room schoolhouse in Aleman, and after a brief residence in Malone, she returned to Hamilton where she completed her schooling, graduating from Hamilton High School.
It was in Hamilton where she met and married the love of her life, Roy Springer, on June 9, 1957. Together, they embarked on a journey of love and partnership that would span an incredible 66 years.
Shortly after their marriage, Shirley and Roy moved to Midland, and over the next decade, their family grew to include their daughters, Kathryn Hughes (with husband Roy) and Donna Miller, their son Jimmy, and their late daughter Sharon Pool. Shirley’s life was further blessed with seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
She was predeceased by her parents, her daughter Sharon, her grandson Jared, and her son-in-law Steve Miller.
Professionally, Shirley dedicated 22 years of service to Contel Telephone, which was followed by a fulfilling second career with Andrews County as a Deputy Auditor. Her work ethic and commitment to her roles were evident to all who worked alongside her.
Shirley’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. Baptized in November 1938 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Aleman and later confirmed at St. John Lutheran Church in Hamilton, she lived her faith daily.
Shirley and Roy became pillars of the Faith Lutheran Church in Andrews, where she taught Sunday school for many years and served in various capacities, always with a servant’s heart and a smile on her face.
Her interests and hobbies were as diverse as they were joyful. An avid bowler, Shirley also enjoyed square dancing, shopping and most of all, traveling and vacationing with her best friend Roy. The memories they created on these adventures became treasured stories that Shirley loved to share with her family and friends.
Shirley’s life was a testament to her love for her family, her unwavering faith and her zest for life. Her presence was a source of stability and love, and her influence will forever remain in the lives of those who knew her. Her laughter, her kind words and her ability to see the good in every situation will be deeply missed.
After 56 years in Andrews, Shirley and Roy moved to Abilene, where they continued to make memories and enjoy their golden years together. In each community they lived, Shirley’s warmth and generosity left a lasting impression.
As we say farewell to Shirley Ruth Springer, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a legacy of love and faith that will continue to inspire generations to come. She was a beacon of light and an example of grace, and though she has left this earthly realm, her spirit will continue to guide and comfort us.
