Shirley Jean Middleton, 87, of Richmond, passed away peacefully on Monday Sept. 26, 2022, at Oak Ridge Assisted Living in Richmond. 

Shirley was born on Aug. 6, 1935, in Richmond, the daughter of Vane and Willie (Yallaly) Thompson. She was united in marriage to Robert H. “Hoot” Middleton of Richmond on June 28, 1956; he preceded her in death on Dec. 2, 1999.  

Survivors include son, Hal James Middleton of Richmond; and daughter, Carol Kay (Tom) Williamson of Richmond. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; daughter, LeAnn Middleton; and two brothers, Randolph Thompson and Ralph Thompson. 

Shirley was reared and educated in Richmond, graduating from the Richmond High School in the class of 1953. She worked as a Dental Assistant for many years for Dr. Raymond Finke’s Office in Richmond. Shirley was an active member of the Richmond First Baptist Church, where she helped prepare Wednesday night meals and worked in the nursery. She enjoyed cooking and was famous for her deviled eggs. Shirley enjoyed going for car rides with her family and going to Sonic for her favorite popcorn chicken and ice cream treat. She enjoyed talking, sharing, and laughing about her family’s stories from their days together on the farm. Shirley enjoyed having a good time and could easily connect with other people. 

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to either the Richmond First Baptist Church or the Humane Society of Ray County. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street-P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085. 

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 3, 2022, at the First Baptist Church in Richmond. Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 2, 2022, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond.  Burial will be in Richmond Memory Gardens. Please remember to share your memories of Shirley with the family by visiting thurmanfuneralhome.com.