Welcome to our new web site!
To give our readers a chance to experience all that our new website has to offer, we have made all content freely avaiable, through October 1, 2018.
During this time, print and digital subscribers will not need to log in to view our stories or e-editions.
Shirley Ellen Shields, 91, of Trenton, Missouri, passed away April 29, 2026. She was born April 3, 1935, in Detroit, Michigan, to Mildred and James McGee.
Shirley graduated from Western Michigan University, where she met her husband, Robert Shields. They married on August 9, 1958, and built a life centered on family, faith, and education. She earned a master’s degree from Northwest Missouri State University in 1994.
She was a devoted mother to Robert Jr. (Nancy), Marshall, and Byron (Beth) and a proud grandmother (Bryce, Bailey, Trey, Nick, Nia, and Brandon) and great-grandmother (Colt and Demi).
Shirley dedicated her life to education, working at Stephens College, Columbia College, Central Methodist, Spickard, and Trenton HS. Known for her compassion and vibrant spirit, she also volunteered extensively, including work with youth programs and Special Olympics Missouri.
A memorial service will be held Friday, May 8, 2026, with visitation at 10 a.m. and service at 11 a.m. at Hodge Presbyterian Church in Trenton, Missouri.
Memorial contributions may be made to Special Olympics Missouri. To send flowers to the family, please send them to Slater-Neal Funeral Home, Trenton, Missouri
