With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Shirley Jean Keys, who passed away on July 31, 2026, at the age of 69 years and 258 days. Shirley was born on November 15, 1956, in Southwest City, Missouri to the late Norma Whitehill-Thompson and Gene Thompson. 

From an early age, she was known for her unwavering faith in the Lord and loved sharing the Gospel with her youngest grandson. Most of her life was spent in Lanagan, Missouri until 2013 when the family packed up and moved to the Mississippi Gulf Coast. 

Shirley loved many things during her time with us, including spending time with her family, passing along a good joke, traveling, coloring, and crocheting. She especially enjoyed taking tropical cruises, turning the thermostat up to about 84 degrees and playfully blaming it on her grandchildren, treating herself to Queen Anne and going out for a bite to eat. She loved spoiling her grandchildren by sharing candy with them and creating the sweetest memories that will be treasured by her family for years to come. Another thing she enjoyed was sitting on the couch and watching television with her granddaughter when they were the only ones home, as well as visiting the Long Beach Senior Center, where she cherished the friendships and memories she made. 

Shirley had a wonderful sense of humor, beautiful laugh, and an amazing smile. There are so many more wonderful things that could be said about Shirley Jean Keys and the life she lived, but above all, she will be remembered for the love and kindness she shared with everyone around her. Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew her and loved her. 

She was preceded in death by her parents Norma Whitehill-Thompson and Gene Thompson, as well as her sister Brenda Pierce. 

She is lovingly survived by her daughter Jennifer Slaven and son-in-law Donald Slaven of the home; her grandchildren, Seth Darity and wife Megan Darity; Haylee Darity; Blade Slaven and wife Audrey Slaven; Jason Slaven; great-grandchildren, Cooper Darity, Elliot Slaven, and little Miss Ella Jean, who is expected to arrive in October, 2026; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins whom she loved dearly. 

Until we meet again, little booger. We’ll love you and miss you, forever and always.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, 11280 Three Rivers Rd., Gulfport, is honored to serve the family.