Shirley Jean Gragg

On Sunday, Dec. 9, Shirley Jean Gragg, age 82, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at Freeman Medical Center in Joplin. From the moment she entered the world on April 3, 1936, in a farmhouse near Butler, Mo., Shirley was a vibrant spirit who brought laughter and enthusiasm to everyone she encountered.

In 1970, she earned a certificate of accreditation from the American Medical Record Association through the University of Missouri in Kansas City. Shirley served as Director of Medical Records for Nevada City Hospital. She then utilized her accreditation to become a medical records consultant for several long-term care facilities in Missouri, Kansas and Arkansas.

Throughout her life, she was an active member of the community. She served as the treasurer of Vernon County Health Department, president of Vernon County Park Board, community association chairperson for the Ozark Area Council of Girl Scouts of America, chairperson of the Vernon County Fair Board, coordinator of the crew of the county fair breakfast diner for many years. Additionally, Shirley was an active member of the Elks Lodge and the Fraternal Order of Eagles.

More than anything, Shirley’s life was defined by her unconditional love for her family. She was the number one fan of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Shirley rarely missed an extracurricular event and was always the biggest supporter in the stands. She never hesitated to cater to her loved ones, even if that meant making everyone their own personal pie on holidays. Lovingly referred to as “Crazy Shirley,” she was the wild card in any game and was always ready to have fun.

She is survived by three children, Phil Gragg and his wife, Becky, Nevada, Sandy Morgan and her husband, Mark, Clinton, Tenn., and Mike Gragg and his wife, Linda, Nevada; grandchildren, Justin Gragg and his wife, Lori, Sabrina Glasgow and her husband, Scott, Lars Patrick, Ariel Patrick-Testini and her husband, Andrea, Michael Gragg, and Nathan Gragg; five great-grandchildren; and two cousins. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jim; and her mother and stepfather, Mamie and Sam Pugh.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 12, at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada. The family received friends from 6-8 p.m., Tuesday, at the funeral home.

Memorials are suggested to Vernon County Cancer Relief.

View obituary and send condolences online at www.ferryfuneralhome.com.