of Harrison, AR

September 11, 1936 - October 4, 2023

Shirley Gale, age 87, of Harrison, Arkansas went to continue her journey with her lifelong partner, Reverend Clifford E. Gale on October 4, 2023. She was born to Omer and Dorothy Watkins, in Eula, Arkansas on September 11, 1936.

Shirley and Cliff enjoyed 59 wonderful years together and to this union, they had one son, Dennis Gale, whom Shirley admired with her whole heart. Shirley was blessed with a "daughter" in 1975 when Dennis married Teresa Gale. In her own words, Shirley said "My children were the best I could have ever had"

Shirley was also blessed with two grandchildren, Robbie Gale and Becca Gale; extended grandchildren, Kristie and Jarred Carlton; as well as three great-grandsons, Malachi, Kai Logan, and Zayde Gale; and one extended great-granddaughter, McKenzie Carlton

Shirley loved all of her family wholeheartedly and also loved her extended family at the Christian Life Center. She and Clifford were able to minister in many different areas throughout Arkansas. Shirley had a bright and contagious smile which will be deeply missed by many. She enjoyed spending time with her brothers and sisters whom she missed immensely, but was able to spend much-needed time with her little sister and one of her dearest friends, Sharon Burns, throughout her last moments in this journey of life. She enjoyed making quilted throws for family and church activities.

Be assured that October 4th was a day of celebration in Heaven upon her arrival.

Shirley is preceded in death by her parents, Omer and Dorothy Watkins; husband, Clifford Gale; brothers, James and Johnny Watkins and sister, Virley Wilson.

Shirley is survived by her son, Dennis Gale and (Teresa) of Harrison; grandchildren, Robert Gale of Benton, Arkansas, Rebecca Gale of Benton, Arkansas, Kristie Carlton; great-grandchildren, Malachi Gale of Harrison, Kai Gale and Zayde Gale of Benton, Arkansas, Mykensie Carlton of North West, Arkansas and sister, Sharon Burns of North West Arkansas; sisters-in-law, Sherlene Watkins and Martha Watkins and many nieces and nephews.


Visitation was on Sunday, October 8, 2023, at the Christian Life Center.

The funeral service was on Monday, October 9, 2023, at the Christian Life Center with Reverend Tim Hampton officiating.

The interment was in White Church Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Doug Watkins, Tim Wilson, Jeremy Burns, Taylor Graham, Duane Graham, and Brandon Likes.

Honorary pallbearers were great-grandchildren, great-nieces, and nephews.

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