Shirley Leota Roy, 87, of Jefferson City, Mo., died at 4:30 p.m.Sunday, June 4, 2023, at her home following an illness. Born December 8, 1935, in Carthage, Mo., Shirley was the daughter of William and Else Piercy. She had moved to Jefferson City, Mo. in 2017 from Diamond, Mo. where she had lived since the early 1970’s.
As a young woman, she worked with her parents as a nurse aide and as a waitress. She was very talented. Even though she was legally deaf, she was an accomplished opera singer. She could sing in seven different languages. For a while, she lived across from Desilu Studios in Hollywood as she pursued a singing career.
In addition to music, Shirley was gifted in painting and crafting. She also helped her husband in the carpentry business. She loved her pet dogs.
Shirley was a devout Christian She was an active member of the First Assembly of God, Duenweg, Missouri. She enjoyed telling people her great love for the Lord.
Shirley and Hugh Roy were united in marriagae May 22, 1975, in Miami, Okla. He preceded her in death July 19, 1999.
Shirley is survived by one sister, Barbara Brandes, and one nephew, Mark Brandes, both of Jefferson City, Mo.
Graveside services will be at 2 p.m., Monday, June 12, at Park Cemetery, in Carthage, Mo. under the direction of Derfelt Funeral Home, Galena, KS.
Contributions may be made in her memory to Derfelt Funeral Home.