Shirley Ann Stapleton

February 8, 1940 – February 20, 2025

Shirley Ann Stapleton, affectionately known as “Mamie” by those closest to her, was born on February 8, 1940, in Franklin, Ohio. She was a beacon of love, faith, and resilience who spent her 85 years touching the hearts of everyone she met.

Embodying Maya Angelou’s words, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel,” Shirley’s warmth and kindness will be remembered forever. Her life was a testament to the power of love and dedication, from her loving marriage to Charles Stapleton, to her devotion to her family and her community.

Shirley was known for her lively spirit, unwavering faith, and her famous biscuits at Hardee’s, earning her the affectionate nickname, “the biscuit lady.” She had a way of making everyone feel special and valued, whether it was through her work as a retail clerk, during social gatherings with friends playing bingo, or in her quiet moments watching her favorite soap operas. Shirley was a woman of many virtues and her life was filled with simple pleasures that she cherished deeply.

She is survived by her beloved grandchildren, Kenzie and Evan Hale, who will continue to remember and honor her legacy. Shirley joins in eternal rest her parents, Monroe and Callie Lamb; her husband, Charles Stapleton; her daughters, Debra Stapleton and Patricia Hale; and her son-in-law, Robert Hale.

As we say our final goodbyes, we are reminded of a quote by Kahlil Gibran: “When you are sorrowful look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight.” Shirley Stapleton, our delight, may have left this world, but she continues to live in our hearts and in the memories we shared with her. We invite everyone whose lives were touched by Shirley to share their memories and upload photos to her memorial page at my.gather.app/remember/shirley-stapleton. Your stories and pictures will serve as a lasting tribute to a truly remarkable woman.

Visitation will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, February 25 at Hartley Funeral Homes, 209 W. Jackson St., Cicero. A funeral service will immediately follow at 11 a.m., with Stephen Warner officiating. Burial will take place at Cicero Cemetery.

Condolences: hartleyfuneralhomes.com