Shirley Rose McGuire

With a heavy heart, we announce the passing of Shirley Rose McGuire, 71, who left us on December 6, 2024, surrounded by family who cherished her deeply.

Shirley was born on October 3, 1953, to Jessie Calvin Cox and Ruby Midkiff Cox in Winnfield, Louisiana, and she came out ready to take on the world-albeit from a slightly lower altitude at just 4 feet 10.5 inches tall. Growing up as the second youngest of eight in a large family, she learned early on how to stand up for herself in a household where "sharing" often meant dividing the last piece of dessert. Despite her petite size, Shirley had a big heart and was a true force of nature. She cherished spending time with her family, teaching her grandchildren to cook, and fiercely cheering them on at their ball games.

Shirley was a loyal employee of Caldwell Holding Company for over 29 years. Those who knew Shirley understood that she loved Jesus, Dr. Pepper and talking Bobby into buying more Christmas decorations for their house.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, David Cox and James Cox, and three sisters: Racheal Woods, Evie Southall, and Tish Vail.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 49 years, Bobby McGuire. Together, they navigated life like two uncoordinated flamingos-occasionally stepping on each other's toes but always holding hands and laughing. She is also survived by her three children: Joey (Cindy), Jessica, and Rebecca (Heath); her brother, Herbert Cox (Thelma); her sister, Darlene Vines; eight cherished grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; and another great-grandchild on the way.

Her funeral will be held on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at 1:00 PM, at First Baptist Church, Columbia, 404 Church Street, Columbia, LA 71418. Interment will follow at Fellowship Cemetery, west of Columbia, under the direction of Riser and Son Funeral Home, Columbia. The family will have a visitation at the church on Wednesday, prior to the service from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM.

Shirley will be profoundly missed but will continue to live on in the hearts and memories of her family, reminding us to embrace life with compassion, joy, and perhaps a slice of chocolate sheet cake. Rest in peace, sweet Shirley. Your legacy of love will forever shine brightly.

Serving as pallbearers will be Andy McGuire, Jacob McGuire, Cooper Williams, Noah Pearson, Case Abrams, and Jay Cooper Spangler. Honorary pallbearers will be the Deacons of Aimoch Baptist Church.