Shirley Brazeal's Obituary
Shirley Brazeal, born April 30, 1935, in Jackson, Michigan, to Gust and Chloie Makres, passed away on May 24, 2025, in Vinita, Oklahoma, at the age of 90.
A true original, Shirley lived her life with authenticity, warmth, and a generous spirit. Known for her talent for crocheting and cooking holiday meals, she had a knack for making everyone feel at home. Her hospitality was unmatched — she had a gift for welcoming people in and making them feel like family.
Shirley ran a home daycare for many years, becoming a dependable and nurturing presence in the lives of many families. She supported parents and helped raise children with love, patience, and her own no-nonsense style. She didn’t believe in filters — you always knew where you stood with her — but somehow, even her most honest words came with a touch of grace and the kind of wisdom that made you straighten up with a smile.
She leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, and the kind of grounded, sincere presence that can’t be replaced. Shirley will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Shirley is preceded in death by her husband Bert Brazeal, brother Don Makres, brother Hugh David Makres and sister Leoma Gardner.
Shirley is survived by her daughter Sharon Fenley and husband Ed, son Delbert Brazeal and wife Michelle, daughter Sheila Harris and husband Dennis, grandchildren Brad Brazeal, Dana Rush, Jackie Kropp, Adam Brazeal, Erica Mariage, Ethan Fenley, Brooke Schroeder, great-grandchildren Otis Rush, Remy Rush, Jackson Brazeal, McCoy Brazeal, Evelyn Mariage, Ashtyn Mariage, Blakely Mariage, Beckam Schroeder, Benton Schroeder, Owen Fenley, Olivia Fenley, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and loved ones.
Funeral services will be held Monday, June 2, 2025 at 3:00 PM at Floral Haven Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to St Jude and American Cancer Society in honor of Shirley.
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