The Richmond News, July 25, 2025

Stephen “Steve” Stratton Shirley, 80, a lifelong resident of Hardin, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, July 17, 2025, at Ray County Hospital and Healthcare in Richmond.

He is survived by Julie, his loving wife of 56 years. Steve was born Nov. 25, 1944, to Virgil and Dora Francis Shirley. He graduated in 1967 from the University of Missouri with degrees in economics and farm management. While at Mizzou, he met the love of his life and married Julie Bogda on July 19, 1969, in Pasadena, Calif.

In addition to his wife, survivors include his three sons, Russell (Dyan) Shirley, Brian (Launa) Shirley and Marc Shirley; and seven grandchildren, Elizabeth (Jacob) Offermann, Danielle Shirley, Dillon Shirley, Luke Shirley, Ella Shirley, Evan Shirley and Evalyn Shirley. His greatgrandson, Elliott Offermann; sister, Suanne (Bob) Littleton; niece, Laurinda (Benny) Almendares; and nephew, Jonathan Leach, also survive.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Virgil and Dora Frances Shirley.

Steve was a lifelong farmer and steward of the land, and he and Julie made their home on the family farm outside Hardin, where they raised their sons.

Steve loved the Hardin community and volunteered with several local organizations over the years, including the Hardin Fire Protection District, Hardin Cemetery Association, Ray County Farm Bureau and Hardin United Methodist Church, and was instrumental in setting up a Harvesters Food Bank program for the Hardin area.

In his later years, he developed a passion for genealogy and spent many hours documenting relatives reaching as far back as the 1600s.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Hardin Fire Protection District. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation with memorial services will be held Friday, July 25, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond, with visitation to start at 10 a.m. and the services to follow at 11. Inurnment will follow in Hardin Cemetery.

Please share your memories of Steve with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.