Stephen "Steve" Stratton Shirley, 80, of Hardin, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, July 17, 2025, at Ray County Memorial Hospital in Richmond.  He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Julie.

Steve was born November 25, 1944 to Virgil and Dora Francis Shirley. He graduated from the University of Missouri in 1967 with degrees in Economics and Farm Management. While at Mizzou, he met the love of his life and married Julie Bogda on July 19, 1969, in Pasadena, CA.

Additional survivors include: Three sons, Russell (Dyan) Shirley, Brian (Launa) Shirley, and Marc Shirley; Seven grandchildren: Elizabeth (Jacob) Offermann, Danielle Shirley, Dillon Shirley,  Luke Shirley, Ella Shirley, Evan Shirley, and Evalyn Shirley; one great-grandson: Elliott Offermann; sister Suanne (Bob) Littleton; niece Laurinda (Benny) Almendares; and nephew Jonathan Leach.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents Virgil and Dora Frances Shirley. Steve was a lifelong farmer and steward of the land, and he and Julie made their home on the family farm outside of Hardin where they raised their three sons. Steve loved the Hardin community and volunteered with several local organizations over the years, including the Hardin Fire Protection District, Hardin Cemetery Association, Ray County Farm Bureau, the Hardin United Methodist Church, and was instrumental in setting up a Harvesters Food Bank program for the Hardin area. In his later years he developed a passion for genealogy and spent many hours documenting relatives reaching as far back as the 1600's.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Hardin Fire Protection District.  They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street-P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation with memorial services will be held on Friday, July 25, 2025, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond, with visitation to start at 10:00 a.m. with services to follow at 11:00 a.m.  Inurnment will follow services in Hardin Cemetery.  Please remember to share your memories of Steve with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com .