Shirley Harrison Willis, 86, of Ridgeland and formerly of Sunflower, passed away Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at Parkway Rehab in Canton.

Shirley was born in Sardis on November 5, 1939, to Chester Harrison and Leollin Robinson Harrison. She married Robert Willis, and they made their home in Sunflower until moving to Ridgeland, Mississippi, in 1983. A respected medical laboratory technologist, Shirley retired from the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, evidenced by her active membership at First Ridgeland Baptist Church. 

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Robert Willis, and siblings, Charles Douglas Harrison and Linda Louise Bowman. She leaves behind a loving family, including her daughter, Gail Willis Smith of Florence, and her son, Barry Willis and wife Kathy of Canton. Her legacy continues with her grandchildren, Melissa Hearn and husband Andy, Harrison Willis and wife Elizabeth, John Willis and wife Emmie, and Robert Belk and wife Sarah, as well as eight cherished great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Brenda Keith and husband John of Madison.

The family will hold a visitation on Thursday, August 6, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Burton Funeral Home, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 p.m. Burial will take place at Indianola City Cemetery. Burton Funeral Home of Indianola has been entrusted with arrangements.