Shirley Jean McWilliams, 76, of Benton, Kentucky, passed away on Sunday, October 18, 2026, at Mercy Health Lourdes in Paducah, Kentucky.
She was born on April 16, 1950, in Huckleberry, Alabama, to the late Erskin and Juanita Cox Estes. Shirley devoted herself to a life of meaningful work and steady commitment. She served as an MP in the Marines, where she demonstrated discipline, courage, and a strong sense of duty. Her service reflected the character she carried throughout her life, and it remained a source of pride and honor. After her military service, she continued serving her community as a dispatcher at the Memphis Police Department and as a court reporter. In addition to her many accomplishments, Shirley earned a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, reflecting her dedication to learning and her desire to care for others in meaningful ways.
Faith was an important part of Shirley’s life, and she found strength and comfort in the Apostolic House of Prayer. Her relationship with her faith and church was a source of encouragement and purpose, and she lived in a way that reflected her beliefs. Her faith was not only something she practiced, but something she lived each day.
Shirley also found great joy in the simple and beautiful things in life. She loved gardening and took pleasure in growing both flowers and vegetables. She enjoyed working with her hands and had a natural talent for crafting and building birdhouses. She also enjoyed canning, preserving the fruits of her labor and sharing the results of her hard work.
Shirley Jean McWilliams will be remembered with love and respect by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her life was one of service, faith, and creativity, and her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those she inspired.
She is survived by two daughters, Alicia Tonette Grazer of Montgomery, Texas, and Dr. Sabrina Jeanette Palmer (Nathan), of Waterville, Iowa; one son, Joseph Erskin McWilliams of Benton; one sister, Alice “Tootie” Smith (Terry) of Grand Tower, Illinois; four brothers, Sam Estes of Hayti, Missouri, Doyle Estes of Gilbertsville, Kentucky, Roger Estes (Kathy) of Birmingham, Alabama, and John Estes (Dana) of Benton; four grandchildren, Shareigha Figureoa (Mark), Calista Morris, Blake Carter and Ashlynn Rucker; and five great grandchildren, Leonardo Figureoa, Alexander Figureoa, Cyrus Figureoa, Sophia Brackett, and Alivia Rucker.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Jefferson Ralph “J.R.” McWilliams; one brother, Tom Estes; and her parents, Erskin and Juanita Cox Estes.
Visitation will be from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at the Life Celebration Center of Filbeck-Cann, 1003 Poplar Street, Benton, KY 42025.
A funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, October 23, 2026, at the Life Celebration Center of Filbeck-Cann, with Sister Emma Conner officiating. Burial will follow at Haymes Cemetery.
