OBITUARY
Shirley Annette Bilbrey, of San Angelo, Texas, passed away on November 24, 2025.
Born in Ballinger, TX on September 26, 1953, Shirley was the cherished daughter of Doyle and Juanita Keesee. She grew up in Ballinger, where she attended school and developed the strong work ethic and compassionate heart that guided her throughout her life.
Shirley dedicated her career to serving others. She retired from Health and Human Services after many years at the San Angelo State Supported Living Center, where she worked as a Direct Support Professional. Her patience, kindness, and unwavering commitment touched the lives of countless individuals and families.
Shirley had a passion for working hard, taking care of others, and spending time with her family—who were the center of her life. She enjoyed watching the Dallas Cowboys play; shopping, cooking, and keeping a welcoming home. In her younger years, she also loved to sew. She will be remembered always for her selflessness and the love she offered so freely.
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Doyle and Juanita Keesee; her grandparents; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
She is survived by her life partner, Manse Clayton of San Angelo; and her children: James Clayton of San Angelo, Regina Zaruba and fiancé Bradley Barnard of San Angelo, Charles Bettis and wife Sunny of Hobbs, NM, and Brenton Bilbrey of San Angelo.
She is also survived by her grandchildren: Joshua Clayton of Las Vegas, NV; Zachary Clayton of Los Angeles, CA; Matthew Zaruba of San Angelo, TX; Tasha Bilbrey of Ballinger, TX; Addyson Bettis, Jaxon Bettis, all of Hobbs, NM, and Camron Bettis, of Midland, TX; and two great-grandchildren.
Shirley leaves behind her siblings: Brenda Merrifield; David Keesee and wife Nalda; Marty Keesee and wife Sam; Aaron Keesee and wife Julie; Alvin Keesee and wife Christa; and Jack Keesee. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews, including Rob Ogle, Amanda Snodgrass, Ashley Danley, Cole Ogle, Clayton Keesee, Rhonda Molina, Lisa Grimes, Michael Keesee, Jason Keesee, Tasha Keesee, AJ Keesee, Chris Keesee, Jaimee Byler, Jordan Keesee, Baylie Keesee, and Jenna Keesee.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on December 7, in Johnson’s Funeral Home Chapel.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to The Springs Memory Care, Concho Hearts Hospice, and Johnson’s Funeral Home for their care, compassion, and support.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dementia Society of America.
— From Johnson’s Funeral Home
