Shirley Barnett Lankford

A funeral service for Shirley Barnett Lankford, 88, of Santo, Texas, will be held at 2:00 PM on Monday, July 14, 2025, in the Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home Chapel, located at 512 N. Ridgeway Dr., Cleburne, TX 76033. Interment will follow in the Rosehill Cemetery, Cleburne, Texas.

Shirley Barnett Lankford, a beloved matriarch cherished friend, passed away on July 7, 2025, in Hico, Texas. She was born on October 7, 1936.

Shirley's life was characterized by a deep love for her family and a passion for nurturing those around her. She was described as loving, sweet beyond measure, and possessed a rare strength that was not often recognized by the world. With a strong faith that guided her journey, Shirley never spoke an ill word, always finding the beauty in life and the goodness in others.

A lover of gardening and cooking, Shirley devoted countless hours to creating both beautiful spaces and delightful meals for her family. Her joy was evident when teaching her children and grandchildren to cook and bake, creating memories that would last a lifetime. Alongside her culinary talents, she enjoyed photography and ceramics, further showcasing her artistic spirit.

Shirley is preceded in death by her husband, Darrell Lankford; parents, Melvin and Ruby Barnett; grandson, Daniel York; and brothers, Lonnie Barnett and Melvin Barnett, Jr.

She is survived by her daughter, Debbie McGill, and husband, Kelly; son, William Lewis, and wife, Laura; and daughter, Donna Lewis; grandchildren, Heather Street, Kelsie Tinker, Andrea Schrick, and Michael York, and ten great-grandchildren; sisters, Betty Cole and Belinda Mogged; brothers Richard Barnett and Curtis Barnett, and a host of other relatives and friends.

The essence of Shirley's life was not only measured by her relationships but also by the warmth she shared with everyone around her. Her legacy will continue to inspire those who knew and loved her.