Birth date: Jun 25, 1945 Death date: Jun 21, 2026
Shirley Joyce Herrin Wager, was born in New Augusta, MS on June 25,1945. Her parents were the late Robert Herrin and the late Ruby Elizabeth Clark. At a young age, Shirley and her two sisters, moved to Madisonville, LA and were ra Read Obituary
I met Shirley when I was 9 years old in 1956, shortly after my family and I moved to Madisonville. We rode Mrs. Deanie's school bus together to St. Catherine's Grammar School. I didn't know anyone on the bus or at school, and everything felt so new and unfamiliar.
Shirley was the student responsible for holding out the flag whenever the school bus stopped to pick up or drop off children. She took me under her wing and asked me to help her with the flag, and that made me feel like I belonged. On mornings when we arrived at school early, she taught me how to play Hopscotch before the bell rang. Every school day, she sat with me so that I would never eat alone. Her kindness meant the world to me.
After grade school, my parents and I moved back to New Orleans, and Shirley and I lost touch.However, many years later, our paths crossed again when we both worked at KMART. Shirley was a pharmacist assistant, and I was a cashier. Through her encouragement, and the respect she had earned as a devoted employee, she put in a good word for me, and helped me get one of the coveted office positions. Once again, Shirley was looking out for me.
Shirley never stopped being kind to me, and I never forgot it. Her generosity, friendship, and her caring heart touched my life in ways she may never had realized. I will always be grateful that God placed Shirley in my life.
I love you Shirley, and you will always have a special place in my heart, and I will cherish the memories of our friendship forever.
With heartfelt sympathy and love to the Wager Family, and to those who loved Shirley, your friend, with love, Janet Ventola (Arruebarrena), Madisonville, Louisiana.
Mrs. Shirley was the perfect example of what a Christian lady should be. I never knew her to say an unkind word about anyone, she would only build them up. She was genuine, honest, generous, and God fearing. I know she is resting at the feet of Jesus. What a very special she was.
- Debbie Beckham Huther
