Bernard Dale Shirley passed away on June 23, 2026, at the age of 89.
Born on April 19, 1937, in Oil Trough, Arkansas, Bernard was the son of W.R. Shirley (Jack) and Alma Shirley. Throughout his life, Bernard embodied the values of hard work, dedication, and responsibility. He spent 44 years as Parts Manager for Reliable Equipment in Hernando, Mississippi, building a career defined by dependability, honesty, and commitment. He believed that a man’s word meant something and that providing for his family was one of life’s greatest responsibilities. Through long hours and unwavering determination, Bernard worked tirelessly to ensure his family was cared for and given every opportunity to succeed.
While he took great pride in his work, Bernard’s greatest pride was always his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose love was demonstrated not through grand gestures, but through a lifetime of sacrifice, steadfast support, and quiet strength. His family always knew they could count on him.
When the workday was done, Bernard found happiness in the simple things in life. He loved being outdoors, whether hunting, fishing, or simply enjoying nature. A lifelong Arkansas Razorback fan, Bernard was passionate about all things Hogs. He faithfully followed Razorback football, baseball, and basketball, celebrating every victory and especially enjoying wins over the Texas Longhorns and Ole Miss Rebels. Win or lose, he remained a loyal supporter whose Razorback pride never wavered.
Bernard is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Jana Sue Shirley (Myers); his sons, Ed Shirley and wife Sheri, and Jody Shirley and wife Simone; his grandchildren, Kara Bauman and husband Brant, Joey Shirley and wife Hailey, Braxton Shirley, Bryce Shirley and wife Kaitlin, McKenzie Shirley, and his great-grandchildren, Elizabeth, Nelson, Azalea, Kai, Willow, and Rowan.
He is also survived by his brother, Boyd Shirley and wife Carol; and his sisters, Bettye Jackson, Barbara Reaves and Beverly White and husband David, and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Bernard was preceded in death by his parents, W.R. Shirley (Jack) and Alma Shirley, and his brother, Billy Ray Shirley.
Bernard will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his unwavering devotion to his family, his love for the outdoors, and his lifelong loyalty to the Arkansas Razorbacks. His legacy of hard work, integrity, and family devotion will live on through the generations who were blessed to know and love him.
