Shirley Arlene Heath, 67, Longton, passed away Wednesday, March 15, 2017, in Sedan. Shirley was born on June 17, 1949 in Iola, the daughter of Charles and Peggy (Schaeffer) Barker.
On April 20, 1969, Shirley married Robert Heath in Tacoma, Wash. They later divorced.
Shirley earned an associate degree in nursing at Allen County Community College and went on to work as a nurse at Arkhaven Nursing Home in Iola. She was also a proud veteran of the U.S. Army as a Corpsman Medic where she used her nursing skills during the Vietnam War to assist in treating soldiers as they came back to the U.S. after fighting overseas. She was known for being set in her ways; however, she was a good listener and had a kind and considerate attitude toward others. She gave freely and was generous with what little she had. During her free time she loved to travel and camp and spend time with her children and grandchildren who where her pride and joy. She also enjoyed watching fireworks during 4th of July celebrations and looking at flowers and butterflies.
Shirley is survived by her children, Charlene Delgado, Ocala, Fla., Candida Wise (Mark), Wichita, Robert Heath, II (Debbie), LeMoore, Calif., and Amy Heath (William Beougher), Longton; her sister, Brenda Beaver, LaCrosse; her uncle, Sterling Barker, Moran; seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents and sisters, Donna Wycoff and Debra Karr.
A graveside service will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Longton Cemetery in Longton.
Services have been entrusted to: Countryside Funeral Home 206 E. Washington, P.O. Box 1233, Howard, KS 67349.
Memorials have been suggested to the Elk County Food Pantry or the Disabled American Veterans and may be left with or mailed to the funeral home.
Online condolences may be left at: www.countrysidefh.com.
