Emma Durst Shirley, age 93, of Leon, WV, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, June 9, 2025, surrounded by her family. Emma was born at home in the Leon area on November 5, 1931, Herschel Winifred and Ruth (Barnett) Durst.

In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husband, Robert "Bob" Shirley, whom she would have celebrated their 75th year of marriage with this upcoming August. She was also preceded in death by her daughters, Barbara Shirley Creel and Sheila Shirley Dore; grandsons, Michael and Benson Shirley; great-granddaughter, Evi Mae Dore; seven brothers, Herbie, Clyde, Ralph, Winnie, Floyd, Kenneth and William Durst; and four sisters, Ella Knapp, Ruth Runion, Edna Huber, and Evelyn Smith.

Emma was a devoted member of Good Shepherd Church in Flatrock. She worked at Yonker's Sewing Factory (later Gerlach's), in Point Pleasant, during her younger years, before dedicating herself to raising her family. Emma had a deep love for her family and always sought to help them in any way possible.

She is survived by her sons, Keith (Jane) Shirley and Brian Shirley (Martha Devault) and daughter, Brenda Shirley Baldwin, all from the Leon area. Emma cherished her grandchildren, Heath (Sarah) Shirley, Shawn Creel, Scot (Angie) and Hannah Dore, Brandon, Brandie and Bradley Shirley, and Chloe. She enjoyed her 14 great-grandchildren, plus had one great-great granddaughter, with two more great-great grandchildren expected in 2025. She is also survived by many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

Pallbearers will be Shawn Creel, Heath Shirley, Eli Dore, Scot and Gavin Dore, Eddie Smith and Donnie Roush. Honorary pallbearers include Dan Sturgeon, Walter Durst, Chuck Groves and Dick Shirley.

We wish to extend our heartfelt gratitude to caretakers Hannah Dore, granddaughter and Emi Dore, great-granddaughter, for their dedicated care over the past two years, enabling Emma to remain home until her passing.

Crow-Hussell Funeral Home will be assisting the family. Services will be held on Friday, June 13, 2025, at the funeral home, with Emma's nephew, Gary Durst officiating. Visitation will begin at 11:30 am, with the funeral service starting at 1:30 pm. Burial will follow in Morgan Cemetery, located near Emma Shirley's home, in Leon, WV. You may offer condolences to the family via this webpage.

A bereavement dinner will be held by the Ladies Society at Good Shepherd Church in Flatrock following the burial. All family and friends are invited and welcome to attend.