Mark Anthony Shirley

On Tuesday, April 8, 2008, our beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, cousin, son-in-law, brother-in-law and friend, Mark Anthony Shirley, left the bonds of earth to join his Heavenly Father. Mark is survived by his wife of 23 years, DeAnna Lofton Shirley; his son, Mark "Anthony" Shirley II; daughter, Amber Marie Shirley; mother, Edelene Barnhill Shirley; sister, Kimberly Shirley Oliver and her husband, Danny; Becky Shirley Monsour, and her husband, Glen; mother-in-law, Vernell Keedy, and her husband, Jim; father-in-law, Dalton P. Lofton, and his wife, JoAnn; brother-in-law, Travis B. Lofton, and his wife, Kristi; brother-in-law, Marc Keedy; sister-in-law, Amie Lofton White, and her husband, Seth; sister-in-law, Amanda Keedy Warner, and her husband, David; nieces, Kristi Monsour Ware, Karen Monsour Jordan, Danielle Oliver, Kelsi Lofton, Emerson White, Lisa Oliver Fortenberry, and Kayla Oliver Marsh; nephews, Hudson White, Mike Monsour, Jon Monsour and David Monsour; nine great nieces and six great nephews. Mark, and his Dad, Roy Gene Shirley, were joyously reunited today as he welcomed his son into his heavenly home. Mark was born February 20, 1962 in Natchitoches, LA. Besides his family, Mark had a passion and love for the outdoors. He was truly a Louisiana sportsman who was most comfortable in camouflage and jeans. He was a hunter, fisherman, and trapper; he witnessed many "firsts" for the young boys (and girls) he mentored and shared his passion with. He was also known for cooking what he caught and introduced fried alligator and turkey, venison burgers, and frog legs to many of his family and friends. Everyone who knew Mark, enjoyed his infectious sense of humor and his unpredictable practical jokes. His wife and children remember him as an "awesome Dad" who taught them many practical lessons and kept them laughing. We believe Heaven will be a livelier place with Mark as its newest resident. Mark's family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the many friends and family members who offered support and love during this difficult time. We extend a special thanks to Tami Attaway, a close friend, who, during Mark's last week, was at his side constantly to prepare him for his new life in Heaven. Also, we thank Rudy McCart, who rarely left his side and is a testimony to what true friends do for the ones they love. Funeral service for Mark will be held 11 AM Saturday, April 12, 2008 in Calvary Baptist Church with Rev. Craig Beeman and Rev. James Lofton officiating. Burial will be in Calvary Baptist Cemetery at Natchitoches, La. under the direction of Blanchard St. Denis Funeral Home of Natchtioches, La. Visitation will be Friday, April 11, 2008 from 5 PM until 9 PM in the funeral home and on Saturday, April 12, 2008 from 10 AM until service time in the church. Pallbearers will be Ronald Shirley, Michael Shirley, Keith Shirley, Edward Shirley, Vaughn Shirley, Terry Shirley, Clark Averett, and Rudy McCart.