Shirley Louise Orton, age 85, passed away Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at the North MS Baptist Memorial Hospital in Oxford, Mississippi.

Funeral services for Shirley will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 20, 2026 in the Martin Willingham Memorial Chapel of Wells Funeral Home with the family receiving friends one hour prior to the service. Shirley will be laid to rest at Forrest Memorial Park in Batesville, MS.

Shirley was born on June 8, 1941 in Minneapolis, MN to the late Edward Charles Cogger and Ruth Agnes Day Cogger. Throughout her life, she was known for her unwavering kindness, quiet strength, and the genuine respect she showed to everyone she met. Her warm spirit and compassionate heart left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Shirley dedicated much of her professional career to working as a secretary for the California Chamber of Commerce. Even after her retirement, her determination and love of learning propelled her back to college. She was able to successfully earn her degree and graduated with her husband, Lee, cheering her on. A faithful member of the First Baptist Church in Batesville, Mississippi, her faith was a cornerstone of her life.

In her leisure time, Shirley enjoyed simple pleasures. She loved working on puzzles and playing bingo with friends. She also loved to watch football, especially the Minnesota Vikings. An avid reader, she found comfort, inspiration, and adventure within these books. Her compassion extended far beyond people; she held a special place in her heart for animals and was a passionate advocate for shelter pets. Few things brought her greater happiness than helping animals find loving homes and second chances.

One of the greatest joys in her life was her family. Those she leaves behind include her two daughters, Stacy Jo Linder and her husband, Dr. Lee Linder of Batesville, MS, and Deborah Louise Piester of Pennsylvania; three grandchildren, Andy Linder (Meg) of Batesville, MS, Jayni Claire Linder of Batesville, MS, and Amanda Carlson of Pennsylvania; and five great grandchildren, Lilly Linder, Drew Linder, Conner Alderson, Maddie Alderson, and Logan Alderson. Shirley truly leaves behind a legacy of love devotion and treasured memories that will continue to live on in the hearts of those she held dear.

Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Leland “Lee” Orton; and one son-in-law, Tim Piester.