Shirley Gollon passed away on Monday, February 16, 2026, at Vanderbilt Hospital. She was born in Paducah, Kentucky, to the late Roy Benes “Buster” and Lillie Mae Alvey Burgess.
Shirley was known for her strong work ethic and warm, welcoming spirit. She spent much of her life working as a waitress, always taking pride in caring for others. She also worked at the Walgreens restaurant in downtown Paducah during the 1950s, 60s, and 70s. It was there that she met the love of her life, Henry Gollon, beginning a marriage that would span 57 wonderful years.
She loved cooking and baking, especially when it meant bringing her family and grandchildren together around the table. Shirley also enjoyed traveling with Henry, and the two often rode their motorcycle together to Arkansas, creating many cherished memories. Above all, time spent with her family was what she treasured most.
Shirley was a longtime member of St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, joining when she and Henry were married. Before the COVID pandemic, she was an active and faithful member who valued the friendships and community she found there.
She is survived by her daughter, Julie (Brian) Mudd of Paducah, Kentucky; her son, Tony Herndon of Kuttawa, Kentucky; three grandchildren, Nathaniel (Arian) McKendree of Murray, Kentucky, Britana McKendree of Paducah, Kentucky, and Adia (Chase) Noles of Paducah, Kentucky; and two great-grandchildren, Gavin Winters and Ophelia Winters.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Henry Gollon; her sister, Barbara Nichols; and her brothers, Bobby Burgess and Tommy Burgess.
A graveside service will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens, with Deacon Scott Jones officiating.
Prayers will be said at 9:30 a.m., with visitation to follow until 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at the Lone Oak Chapel of Milner & Orr Funeral Home.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, 116 South 6th Street, Paducah, Kentucky 42001.
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