Shirley Fuqua Gibbs (Fuqua)

Shirley Fuqua Gibbs, 83 of Independence, MO passed away Sunday, September 6, 2015 at the Gower Convalescent Center. Services will be 10:00 a.m., Friday, September 11, 2015 at the Speaks Suburban Chapel, 18020 E. 39th St., Independence, MO 64055 with cremation to follow. The family will greet friends from 6 to 8:00 p.m., Thursday evening at the chapel. Donations may be made in her name to Synergy Services Children’s Center, 400 E. 6th St., Parkville, MO 64152. Shirley was born January 12, 1932 in Hannibal, MO to Earl R. and Edna M. (Fisher) Fuqua. She graduated from public schools and received her bachelors from William Jewell College and later a master’s in education from UMKC. She taught for the Independence School District for over 30 years until she retired in 1997. After retirement she still taught GED classes until the age of 70. She enjoyed animals and loved her dogs. She was a member of Calvary Baptist Church and the Missouri State Teachers Association. She is survived by: a daughter, Andrea Wilson and husband Rob of Gower, MO; 2 brothers, Harold Fuqua and wife Paula of Ballwin, MO and Lee Fuqua of Fenton, MO; a son-in-law, Alan Williams; 8 grandchildren, Joel, Brittany, Bethany, Nina, John, Eric, Chase and Liam and 3 great grandchildren, Alillya, Lola and Archer. She was preceded in death by her parents, a daughter, Susan Williams in 2006, a son, Paul Gibbs in 2008 and 3 brothers, Robert, Wayne and Wyatt Fuqua. As a final request Shirley wished for all those attending her Celebration of Life to wear bright colors. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.speakschapel.com (Arrangements: Carson-Speaks Chapel (816) 252-7900)