Shirley Mae Martin, 88, of Sedalia, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at Primrose Retirement Community, surrounded by her loving children.

Born in Pomona, Missouri, Shirley was one of five children of William R. and Margaret F. Chritton. Raised on a farm, she developed a lifelong appreciation for family, hard work, and simple pleasures. An excellent student and gifted athlete, she graduated from West Plains High School in 1956.

In 1956, she married her high school sweetheart, E. Russell Martin. Together, they raised five children and shared nearly 59 years of marriage before Russell's passing in 2015. After living in several Missouri communities, the family settled in Sedalia in 1969, where Shirley made her home for the remainder of her life.

Shirley was known for her outgoing personality, infectious enthusiasm, and ability to make everyone feel welcome. She enjoyed lifelong friendships through Beta Sigma Phi sorority, bowling leagues, golf, and countless community activities. She was an enthusiastic supporter of the Missouri State Fair, rarely missing a year, and especially treasured summers spent with family and friends at the Lake of the Ozarks, where annual reunions created generations of cherished memories.

A passionate golfer and bowler, incredible cook, avid traveler, gardener, and shopper, and devoted sports fan, Shirley embraced life with energy and humor. She was especially proud of her beloved Kansas City Chiefs and Mizzou Tigers, earning the affectionate nickname "Crazy Tiger Lady." Through life's challenges, she demonstrated remarkable strength, resilience, and an enduring love for those around her.

Above all, Shirley treasured her family. She is survived by her five children, Carrie Core, Terri McClelland (Tom), Gerri Barnes (Jim), Rusty Martin, and David Martin (Kelly); three sisters, Wilma Brixey, Erma Chritton, and Barbara Wood (Gary); 11 grandchildren, Lynn Parkhurst, Jason Barnes, Andrea Hester, Danielle Gregorich, Colin Core, Ashley Butler, Jamie Martin, Andrew Martin, Tommy McClelland, Matthew McClelland, and Kelsey McClelland; 16 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-granddaughter.

She was preceded in death by her husband, E. Russell Martin; her parents; and her brother, William R. Chritton, Jr.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, November 6, 2026, at Rea Funeral Chapel, 3510 W. 16th Street, Sedalia, with John White officiating. The family will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. until service time at the funeral chapel. In celebration of Shirley's spirit, attendees are encouraged to wear Kansas City Chiefs or Mizzou Tigers attire.

The family extends its heartfelt appreciation to the staff of Primrose Retirement Community, E.W. Thompson Health and Rehabilitation Center, and ACG Hospice for their compassionate care.

Memorial contributions may be made to ACG Hospice or the Sedalia Animal Shelter, in care of Rea Funeral Chapel. Condolences may be shared at reafuneralservice.com.