Shirley Russell Cawthon, 89, of Morgantown, passed away peacefully Wednesday, November 12, 2025, in Sundale Nursing Home.
She was born August 1, 1936, at her family home in Craigsville, a daughter of the late Willard J. Russell and Genevive Yeager Russell.
Left to cherish her memory are her loving children, Jeffery Alan Cawthon (Michele) of Reedsville, and Brandon Matthew Cawthon of Morgantown; and her only surviving sibling of seven, Darrell Russell of St. Petersburg, Fla.; as well as several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Shirley was preceded in death by her spouse, Jack D. Cawthon; her brothers, Sherdian, Wayne, and David; and sisters, Wandalene and Marilyn.
The first of her family to attend college, she enrolled at Glenville State College, where she studied education. While a student, she met her husband, Jack Cawthon, and they married in 1957.
Shirley was a traveling remedial reading teacher in the Monongalia County schools for many years until her retirement.
She enjoyed doing DIY projects around her home and enjoyed family holiday gatherings. She was an avid reader and collector of books. Her hobbies included sewing, quilting, sketching and painting, as well as writing poetry.
In accordance with her wishes, Hastings Funeral Home has been entrusted with cremation arrangements.
The family wishes to thank her many caregivers and staff at Harmony Assisted Living, The Suites at Heritage Point Assisted Living, Sundale Nursing Home and Amedisys Hospice Care. The one word that everyone used to describ Shirley was “sweet”.
In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged, in Shirley’s honor, to diabetes or Alzheimer’s research, or any charity of one’s choosing.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.hastingsfuneralhome.com
