Hester Cornelia Shirley

Hester Cornelia Shirley, age 80, was called home to be with the Lord on May 15, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas. She was born on June 23, 1944, in Mississippi to Tulion McCoy and Ruby Mary Cornelia McCoy.

Hester was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She had a passion for cooking and baking, and she found true joy in spending time with her family. Her heart belonged to the beaches of Corpus Christi, where she made countless cherished memories. A devoted Elvis Presley fan, she visited Graceland and never missed a chance to see a local Elvis impersonator.

Hester was a woman of incredible strength and resilience. In 1996, she was diagnosed with breast cancer and fought courageously to overcome it. When cancer returned around 2016, she faced it once again with unwavering determination. Hester recently fell ill and was diagnosed with leukemia. True to her spirit, she bravely prepared to fight yet another battle, facing it with the same warrior strength that defined her life.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dallas Shirley; her father, Tulion McCoy; and her mother, Ruby Mary Cornelia McCoy.

Hester is survived by her devoted children: James Shirley and Elizabeth Jett (Heath Eckenrode). She leaves behind her beloved grandchildren: Chastity Alice Shirley (Chris Vera); Angelique Sharee Hernandez (Luis Hernandez); Mason Kevin Shirley (Tanija Byrd); William Glenn Dallas Jett; and Lon Jett V.

She was a cherished sister to Lucille Hays (Joe Trotter), Betty Lou Yost, and Donald McCoy (Minerva McCoy). Hester also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss her deeply.

Hester Cornelia Shirley’s legacy is one of love, courage, and faith. Her strength continues to inspire all who knew her.

Viewing and visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Puente and Sons Funeral Home, 14315 Judson Road, San Antonio, Texas. A graveside service will immediately follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.