In Loving Memory of Shirley Ann McMurtray

April 21, 1940 – September 29, 2026

Shirley Ann McMurtray, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, devoted partner, sister, and faithful friend, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on September 29, 2026, in Fort Worth, Texas. She was born on April 21, 1940, in Waco, Texas, to Leroy and Ettie McMurtray.

Shirley lived a life rooted in faith, love, and the simple joys that make a life beautiful. She was a Christian whose relationship with Jesus was deeply important to her. Her faith was not simply something she spoke about—it was a part of who she was and a source of comfort, strength, and hope throughout her life. She found great joy in watching the Sonlife Broadcasting Network and listening to gospel music that spoke to her heart.

Among her favorite songs were “Just the Mention of Your Name” by Jimmy Swaggart, “The Blood Bought Church” by Gaithers, and many songs by John Starns, including “The God That Cannot Fail” and “It Is Finished.” These songs reflected the faith she held so dearly and the hope she carried in her heart.

Shirley was a woman who knew how to find happiness in the everyday moments. She loved cardinals, smiling, laughing, dancing, crocheting, and doing word-find puzzles. Her smile and laughter brought warmth to those around her, and her love could be felt in the little things she did and the memories she created with the people she cherished. She also loved animals and enjoyed feeding stray cats around her home.

For more than 20 years, Shirley shared her life with her beloved partner, Donnie Windfield. Their years together were filled with companionship, love, and countless memories. She also treasured her family deeply and took great joy in watching her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren grow.

Shirley is lovingly survived by her son, David DeRitis; her daughter, Tammy Adkins; her eldest son, Timothy Patterson; her partner of more than 20 years, Donnie Windfield; her grandchildren, Derek Adkins Jr., Christina Adkins, and Jennifer Adkins; and her great-grandchildren, Derek Adkins III, Keith Adkins, Kevin Adkins, Jacob Vaughn, Kaleb Vaughn, Conner Adkins, Mia Aaron, Meadow Aaron, Anakin Brush, and Cyklally Jimenez. She is also survived by her beloved dog, Ziggy, who was a cherished companion and part of her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Leroy and Ettie McMurtray; her former husband, Richard DeRitis; her sister, Wanda Butler; her brothers, Roy McMurtray and Charles McMurtray; and her sisters, Carolyn McMurtray and Paulette McMurtray.

Though Shirley’s earthly journey has come to an end, the love she gave and the memories she created will remain in the hearts of those who knew her. Her laughter, her smile, her faith, and the little things that made her uniquely Shirley will be remembered and treasured for generations to come.

A memorial service will be held at Sanctuary of Praise 8341 Wyatt Drive in White Settlement 76108 on Saturday, October 24th at 1PM. The family invites everyone who knew Shirley to join them in fellowship and celebrating the wonderful life she lived.