Billy B. Shirley

LINCOLN

  Billy B. Shirley, born on Sept 22, 1941, in Barnard, KS left us on Oct 25, 2025, at the age of  84. Bill was a proud United States Navy veteran, who served his country faithfully for 20 years as a hospital corpsman. Bill dedicated his military career to taking care of others and made lifelong friends along the way, His years in the Navy were marked by commitment, courage and integrity, qualities that he carried throughout his entire life. During his service, he received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Navy Achievement Medal, Navy Unit Commendation, Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation, Civil Actions Medal with Palm and First, Second, Third and Fourth Good Conduct Awards.

  While serving in the Navy, Bill took a trip to visit his cousin, where fate stepped in - he met his cousin’s wife’s sister, Shelia. Just two weeks later, they were married, beginning a lifelong love story that lasted 60 years. Bill was a devoted husband, father and friend. A man of quiet strength. Together he and Shelia built a life of unwavering devotion.

  Upon his Navy retirement, Bill moved his family back to his childhood hometown of Lincoln, Kansas where he stayed the remainder of his life. He worked as a Lincoln County Sheriff's Deputy, Farmway Co-op and Quartzite Stone Company. He was a proud member of VFW Post 7928, serving as Post Commander and other positions for many years.

  Bill is survived by his wife Shelia; his daughter Teresa (Chris) Parton; son Thomas Shirley; and grandsons, Dominic and Jace Oliva. He is also survived by his sister Margaret (Harold) Smith and brother Jerry (Sandi) Shirley as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Thomas and Alice Shirley and his brother Charles “Leo” Shirley.

  Bill’s life was filled with service, love, laughter and always a good Bourbon – a Navy veteran, loving husband, proud Dad and grandfather whose memory will continue to bring smiles and warmth to all who knew him.

  A graveside memorial service with full military honors will be held at Lincoln Cemetery on Friday, October 31, 2025, at 1100. Luncheon to follow at the Lincoln VFW. In lieu of plants and flowers, the family requests that memorials be sent to Lincoln VFW Post 7928, c/o, Hall Chapel, PO Box 37, Lincoln, KS 67455. Condolences ban be left at hallchapel.com.

  Fair winds and following seas, Bill. You have completed your watch.

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