Shirley Mae (Welker) Young

Shirley Mae Young, age 82, of Marble Hill, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2025, at Stonebridge Senior Living. 

Born on January 12, 1943, in Hurricane, Missouri, Shirley lived a full and joyful life rooted in family, faith, and simple pleasures. She worked for many years at the shoe and hat factories in Marble Hill and Advance. Shirley Welker and Billy Young were married on July 6, 1983. 

Shirley was the kind of person who made everyone feel welcome. Her kitchen was the heart of her home, and no one ever left hungry. Whether she was whipping up homemade candy, trying out new recipes, or sneaking in a little squirrel or snapping turtle into a dish, she cooked with love and laughter. Shirley also enjoyed sewing and made many of her own tops. She had a deep love for animals and plants, a spirited sense of fun, and never missed a chance to dance or cast a line while fishing.

She is survived by her brother, Bill Welker; sisters, Brenda (Randy) Johnson, JoAnn Kirkpatrick, Janice Eaker, and Dot Lincoln; grandchildren, Brandi Little and Lance Little JR; great-grandchildren, Bekka, Lanee JR, and J.D.; and many cherished nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Billy Young, beloved son, Ben Little, and her brother, Benton Butch Welker.

Services will be held at Hutchings-Pendergrass Funeral Chapel in Marble Hill, MO. Visitation will be from 11:00am to 1:00pm on Monday July 7th. Funeral Service will be held on Monday July 7th beginning at 1:00pm.