Shirley Jean Hester

It is with great sorrow; the family of Shirley Sossamon Hester announces her departure. She will be remembered as a beloved mother, grandmother, sister and friend. Born in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, Shirley brought warmth and compassion to all those she encountered throughout her life. She departed on September 21, 2026, after brief illness, leaving a legacy of love and kindness that will forever be cherished.

Shirley was preceded in death by Clayborn and Cledoia Sossamon and brother Charlie Sossamon. Shirley’s vocation was not just a profession, but a calling. She devoted many years to caring for others in various nursing roles, culminating in her dedicated service at the Little Rock VA, where she spent her final 40 plus working years bring comfort and healing to veterans and their families.

Family was the cornerstone of Shirley’s life. She was a devoted mother to her two daughters, Mary Ann Brumley and Vickie Sellers (Ricky), who were her pride and joy. Shirley’s love extended to her grandchildren, Matthew Brumley (Brooke), Olivia Norwood (Jeff), and Hunter Sellers (Taylor), who were fortunate to feel her unwavering support and affection. Her 6 great-grandchildren were er pride and she was an active presence in their lives, always offering encouragement and love.

Shirley leaves behind sisters Betty Harris and Diane Canada. Her siblings, children, and grandchildren remember her as a steadfast pillar of support, always ready with a listening ear and a kind word. The family would like to extend a special note of gratitude to the Cardiac Tea, at Springhill Baptist Hospital in North Little Rock for their exceptional care and compassion during Shirley’s brief illness.

Shirley’s request for a quiet passing is being respected. Her life was a testament to the profound impact one person can have on the lives of many. Her legacy of love, compassion, and dedication to caring for others will remain in the hearts of those she leaves behind She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege to know her.