Robert William Shirley, 90. of Grantville, KS, departed this life on Friday, September 13, 2024 at the University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City, KS. His last few days were spent doing what he loved; working on his farm.

Bob was born March 6, 1934 at Grantville. the youngest son of Arch J. and Martha Payne Shirley. He was a 1952 graduate of Washburn Rural High School, where he played and competed in baseball, football and basketball. He attended the University of Kansas on a baseball scholarship and competed as a pitcher. He earned a B.A. degree in Education from K.U. in 1957. He was a member of Delta Epsilon Fraternity, making many lifelong friends. After his graduation, Bob returned to the family farm in Grantville and continued to run the whole farming and cattle operation until his death. He was a mentor to many people and spent many years teaching younger generations about life on the farm. Bob and Sally's doors were always open and many guests would stay over the summer and work on the farm. Bob was always proud of his farm and valued the hard work to support his family, always living by the golden rule of being kind to others. He was very proud of his family and was very devoted to his wife, daughters and grandchildren.

Bob married Sally Diane Buford on July 19,1959 at Grantville, she preceded him in death on September 10, 2021. He is survived by three daughters, Diane Shirley, Saundra Shirley, both of Grantville, Carla (Jimmy) Henson, Bixby, OK, grandson, Jared Shirley, Grantville, Jenna Henson, Oklahoma City, OK. Bob will be missed by countless relatives, friends and the Grantville Community. His legacy will live on through his cattle, sod and crop farming.

Funeral Services will be 2:00 PM, Friday, September 20, 2024 at the Grantville United Methodist Church. Burial will be at Grantville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials suggested to Grantville-McPherson Park, Attn: Baseball Field, 3877 S. St. Grantville, KS 66429. Barnett Family Funeral Home, Oskaloosa is assisting the family. barnettfamilyfh.com