Shirley Joann Wofford

Shirley Joann (Farris) Wofford lived a spirited and abundant life for 78 years. She leaves a legacy of love and life for all who were fortunate enough to know her. She was married to her husband Bill for 60 years, and felt privileged to raise four children: Vicky, Mike, Billy, and Catherine. Together, they were supported throughout their lives by Shirley’s tenacity, passion, and will for life. She was raised in a working class home with six brothers and sisters: Lynn, Faye, Lloyd, Velda, Sam and Bob who passed away as young child. Shirley attended Franklin Grade School in Omaha and graduated from Omaha Tech High School where she was involved in school activities and sports. She met her husband, Bill Wofford her junior year. Bill and Shirley dated her senior year of high school and were engaged to be married after her graduation in 1955. They were married December 2, 1955 in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Shirley had a quiet and determined outlook on life: to work hard and give her best in everything. Taking the good with the bad, Shirley believed in moving forward and not looking back. Shirley was a competitive athlete who passed on her competitive spirit to her four children who all excelled in their own athletic pursuits. One of Shirley’s greatest joys in life was attending her children’s, grandchildren’s, and great grandchildren’s sporting events. She traveled around the country to root for wrestling, soccer, basketball, softball, football, and lacrosse events, among others. Additionally, she enjoyed rooting for her favorite college and professional sporting teams which included Nebraska University football and volleyball, as well as her beloved Denver Broncos led by Peyton Manning for whom she cheered till the end. Shirley excelled in competitive bowling for years with her sister and close friends. She continually strived for the perfect 300 score, with a career high of 279. Shirley was also supportive of her husband’s interests; and encouraged him to fish, hunt, camp, and farm. Shirley loved the outdoors, especially her farm and garden, amazing flowers, as well as her wild and playful kittens. She had a simple appreciation for each day and the life that surrounded her. In addition to family and sports, Shirley had a unique special passion for sewing, quilting, and doll making. She had a fondness for exquisite porcelain dolls, which she painted and sewed every tiny detail with precision. Each doll became a unique work of art. She made and gifted dolls to each grandchild. Fudge-making was another pastime that she enjoyed sharing with her children and grandchildren ~ her fudge recipe is being shared with you today! Holidays also provided special joy in Shirley’s life as her family grew to 10 grandchildren and continued to include 10 great-grandchildren. Christmas was Shirley’s favorite time of year; and she loved to give gifts to each grandchild on this special occasion. Outside of her own family, Shirley loved spending time with her siblings and their families on the lake, at graduations and at weddings. Shirley was a longstanding member of Our Saviour’s Baptist Church. She enjoyed supporting her church family as well as Bill’s ministry to nursing home residents for over 40 years. Her smile and compassion was a weekly highlight for many. She was a truthful person of integrity, humble and willing to help those who need it the most. She was also extremely patriotic and extended her empathy to veterans and military. Shirley led a full and vibrant life, giving to all who knew her. Blessed with a loving husband and offspring, Shirley’s legacy will continue in the countless smiles, love, and laughter of her family and all those she touched. Shirley’s spirit will live on in everyone here today and in those who send their love and wishes. Let us celebrate the wonderful life of Shirley and be grateful for the new realm of joy and happiness that she now embraces. Shirley J. Wofford, age 78, of rural Bennington, NE, died 10-20-15. Preceded in death by parents and brother Bob Farris. Survived by husband William R. “Bill” of rural Bennington, children; Vicky (Randy) Lambert of Omaha, Michael of Elkhorn, William (Shelly) of Aurora, NE, and Catherine (Emil) Stienstra of St. Paul, MN, 10 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, brothers and sisters: Lynn (Shirley) Farris, Faye Patterson, Lloyd Farris, Velda (Lee) Borden, and Sam (Della) Farris. Funeral service 10 AM Saturday, Our Savior’s Baptist Church, Elkhorn. Interment Prospect Hill Cemetery, Elkhorn. Visitation Friday from Noon to 8 PM with family receiving friends from 6-8 Pm at the funeral home in Elkhorn. Memorials to the Wounded Warrior Project or the Mayo Cancer Clinic.

Shirley Joann Wofford

December 6, 1936 - October 20, 2015