Shirley Ann Defoor James

Shirley Ann Defoor James of Blue Ball, Arkansas, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, October 2, 2026, in Blue Ball, surrounded by the loving family who meant so much to her. Shirley was born November 6, 1940, in Waldron, Arkansas, to James "Sonny" Vaughn and Myrtle (Owens) Vaughn. She was 85 years old.

For Shirley, home was the Blue Ball valley. She grew up there and spent most of her life among its familiar places and the people she loved. It was where she raised her children, watched her family grow, and made memories that her loved ones will carry with them always. A devout Christian and a member of Mt. Pleasant Primitive Baptist Church in Waltreak, Arkansas, Shirley held her faith close to her heart.

Shirley enjoyed quilting, embroidering, and tending her garden. There was happiness to be found in creating something with her hands and watching something grow. Yet nothing brought her more joy than being with her family. Her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren were her greatest treasures. To the many who called her Grandma, she held a place that no one else could fill. The everyday moments spent together now become some of the memories they will cherish most.

Shirley knew the meaning of hard work. Over the years, she worked for ARVAC and served as a substitute teacher, but most of her working life was spent at the poultry plant. She worked through its many changes-from Valmac to Tasty Bird and finally Tyson Foods-before retiring after more than 25 years of dedicated service.

Shirley leaves behind to cherish her memory her children: Delores Pollard, Tim Defoor (Kim), Rusty Defoor (Patty), and Mark Defoor (Charolette); and her stepchildren, Rhonda James and Jay James.

Grandma will forever remain in the hearts of her grandchildren: Brad Pollard, Samantha Martinez, Timmy Defoor, Jessica Defoor, Misty Defoor, Michael Defoor, Jonathan Defoor, Blake Defoor, Trent Defoor, and Sarah Defoor. Her love will live on through her great-grandchildren: Alex, Owen, Jordan, Enrique, Emma, Lily, Chayse, Landon, Kimmy, Stella, Noelle, Fin, Adelyn, Emily, Kaleb, Carter, Justin, and Jaymie; and her two great-great-grandchildren, Oleander and Grayson. Shirley is also survived by her sister-in-law, Fayrene Vaughn, and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who will treasure their memories of her.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Sonny and Myrtle Vaughn; her brother, Leon Vaughn; her sister, Lavern Templeman; her baby brother, Odis; her baby sister, Shirlon; and her granddaughters, Jamie Defoor and Machala Defoor and a great grandson Austin Defoor. She was also preceded in death by her first husband and the father of her children, Troy Defoor, and her second husband, Ronnie James.

Shirley's graveside celebration of life will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, October 8, 2026, at Hunt Cemetery in Blue Ball, Arkansas, with Rev. Rickey Hunt officiating. In the valley she called home, family and friends will gather to remember Shirley, share in the comfort of their faith, and honor a life filled with love for her family. Interment will follow in Hunt Cemetery.

Shirley's visitation will be held Wednesday, October 7, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Waldron, Arkansas.

Much like the quilts Shirley enjoyed making, her life joined together many pieces of love, faith, and family. Each child and grandchild, each shared visit, and each year spent together became part of a story that belongs to all who loved her. Her family will miss her dearly, but they will carry the comfort of her love and the blessing of having called her Mom and Grandma for the rest of their lives.