Born on June 19, 1953 in Wichita Falls, Texas, Shirley was the daughter of D.C. and Jenivie Pruett. As the daughter of a military father, she spent much of her childhood traveling and experiencing life in faraway places such as California and Africa.

On July 21, 1972, she married Gaylon Day in Brownwood, Texas. Shirley was a devoted wife, a lifelong caregiver, and a woman of deep faith.

Shirley graduated from Early High School in 1971 and later earned her LVN certification from the Brownwood School of Vocational Nursing in 1974. She went on to earn her Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) credential, allowing her to assist in cataract surgeries. She spent over 30 years working in ophthalmology with the Heart of Texas Outpatient Cataract Center, where she touched countless lives with her kindness and care.

Her compassion extended beyond her community through multiple mission trips to Acuña, Mexico. Here, Shirley helped provide glasses, assist in surgeries, and care for patients who otherwise would not have access to treatment.

Shirley had a giving nature, always putting others before herself. She was deeply rooted in her faith, while also maintaining a unique curiosity about the world, including an interest in metaphysical practices such as crystals, sage, and dowsing. She also had a playful, silly side that brought joy to those around her.

She enjoyed scrapbooking memories, working puzzles, getting her hands dirty in her gardens, creating cards for her family and friends, shopping for craft supplies, reading her Bible, and spending time with the people she loved most.

Shirley is survived by her husband, Gaylon Day; her daughters, Angela Ellison and husband Christopher, Melissa Sikes and husband Cale, and Beth Avey and husband Farron; her sister, Laura Hatcher and husband Don; her brother, Arnold Pruett and wife Jan; and her six grandchildren, Coleman Ellison, Ethan and Aiden Sikes, Emileigh Smith, and Olivia and Charlie Avey. She is also survived by her nephews, Jimmy Pruett, Nick and Andy Hatcher, and Cody and Chad Pruett; and her beloved dog, Tabitha.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Shirley’s life was defined by love, faith, and service – and her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Online condolences, memories and tributes can be made to the family at www.heartlandfuneralhome.net