Shirley E. Murray

Shirley Ellen Murray, 76, passed into eternal slumber with family by her side on Friday, February 7, 2025, as she succumbed to post-surgical complications.

Shirley was born April 28, 1948, in Ottumwa, Iowa to Gifford and Mary (Trimble) Sparks. Shirley was a strong woman who, once her mind was made up about something, would not change it. Her independence and stubbornness where her strongest defining character traits. Shirley was always up for an adventure. She enjoyed road trips, shopping, and was an avid NASCAR fan. She was also an animal lover.

She is survived by her son, James “Jamie” Meredith (Pam) of Oskaloosa; son, Marty Murray-Lubbert of Des Moines; as well as extended family and friends.

Shirley was preceded in death by her father, Gifford Sparks; mother, Mary Sparks; husband, James Murray; sister, Marjorie Quigley; and a lifetime of family pets.

Cremation will occur and there will be no services held at this time.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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Chelsea Dixon

02/14/2025

My condolences to Ms Shirley's family and loved ones, also to Fluff.
Shirley was my coworker, former trainer, and Supervisor, but most importantly, she was one my my dear friends.
Her strong will and class were things to be admired and will certainly be missed. I will also miss her stories, like the ones about the 12 bedroom (?) farmhouse she grew up in and her summers swimming and taking care of her beloved horses. I was also fond of hearing about her years as a caretaker. I will miss her dearly.

Tycene Phillips

02/13/2025

I’m so sorry to see this seeing it on the ottumwa post I remember her well as she was good friends of my moms who passed 4 years ago
Praying for the family and her two sons