Shirley lived a full and wonderful life, grounded in her faith, devoted to her family, and always interested in the lives of the people she loved. Born on July 5, 1935, Shirley was raised in Muncie, Indiana, by her parents, John and Georgia Darrall, who preceded her in death. She grew up on 9th Street alongside her sisters, Sharon Harrison (husband Bob) and Jan Johnson, who preceded her in death. Known together as the three Darrall girls, the sisters shared a special bond and many treasured memories of their early years in Muncie.

Shirley graduated from Muncie Central High School in 1953 and remained a proud Muncie Central Bearcat throughout her life. As a young woman, she was part of one of the largest cheer blocks at Muncie Central during the 1950s, carrying that Bearcat pride with her for many years. Her favorite color was purple. Shirley was a lady in every sense of the word. She had a quiet strength and a natural ability to make people feel heard and respected. She worked at Muncie Federal and later at Canon Appraisal Company, where she retired after many years of dedicated service.

Shirley was the mother of four children: Brad Simmons (wife Renee), Greg Simmons (wife Bonnie), Todd Simmons (wife Lori), and Ann Bird, who preceded her in death.

On April 21, 1979, Shirley married Jack Perry. Being Jack's wife was something she deeply treasured, and she often spoke about how much she loved being married. Jack especially cherished Shirley's beautiful voice. Shirley was faithful to Jack, but she was even more faithful to God. Her relationship with God was at the center of her marriage, her family, and everything she did.

A faithful member of Center Chapel GMC, Shirley began each morning with devotion and prayer. She kept a prayer list and prayed for each person on it by name, lifting their needs, families, and circumstances to God. Her faith was not simply something she spoke about; it was something she lived. She shared her beliefs openly, prayed with people and for them, and trusted God throughout every season of her life. Her faith gave her strength, comfort, direction, and purpose.

Shirley took great pride in her home and enjoyed making it a warm and welcoming place. She was a good cook who found joy in caring for the people she loved. She enjoyed visiting with family and wanted to hear everything happening in the lives of her children, grandchildren, relatives, friends, and extended family. She remembered the small details, celebrated their accomplishments, and was always quick to tell others how proud she was of them.

She also loved her four stepchildren: Greg Perry (wife Brenda), Doug Perry (wife Michele), John Perry (wife Anastasia), and Julie Beckley (husband Dan).

Shirley treasured her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchild. She delighted in each new generation and considered her large family one of the greatest blessings of her life.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the relatives, friends, and caregivers who surrounded Shirley with love, prayers, kindness, and support during her final days. Every visit, prayer, thoughtful word, and act of care brought comfort and meant more than words can express.

Shirley leaves behind a legacy that cannot be measured only by dates or accomplishments. Her beautiful story will continue to live on through the family she cherished, the people whose lives she touched, and the resounding faith she shared so freely as she now rests peacefully.

Funeral Services will be held at Center Chapel GMC on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 1:00 p.m.