Shirley Jane Mercer Smith, known lovingly by many as "Pearl," passed away on July 16, 2026, in Leesburg, Florida. She was 71 years old. Born on May 9, 1955, in Borger, Texas, Shirley grew up surrounded by a big, close family, and she carried that warmth with her everywhere she went for the rest of her life.

Shirley married the love of her life, Clifford Smith Jr., and together they shared 42 wonderful years of partnership, laughter, and devotion. Building a family was at the heart of everything Shirley did. She was a proud mother of 4, an adoring grandmother to 11 grandchildren, and a doting great-grandmother to 7 great-grandchildren. Her family was her greatest passion, and she made sure every single one of them knew it.

Anyone who ever spent time around Shirley understood what made her so special. She was simply the most loving person to be around. She could light up a room with her smile and her laugh, and she had a way of welcoming people into her life with an unmatched exuberance that made them feel truly loved and seen. Whether it was family, longtime friends, or someone she had just met, Shirley had a gift for making people feel like they mattered. Shirley’s hugs were the best kind of tight hugs that left a lasting memory of the strong love she so readily shared. That kind of warmth doesn't come along often, and those who experienced it will carry it with them always.

Shirley was preceded in death by her father, Sam Mercer, and her mother, Wilma Mercer. She is survived by her husband, Clifford Smith Jr.; her daughters, Crystal West, Erin Kahn, and Melissa Gregoire; her son, Landon Smith; her brothers, Sam Mercer, Steve Mercer, and Joe Mercer; her sister, Nancy French; her 11 grandchildren; and her 7 great-grandchildren.

Shirley held a quiet and steady faith throughout her life, and her family finds comfort in the promise of Psalm 91, trusting that she now rests safely in the shelter of the Most High and dwells in the shadow of the Almighty.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Grace Church, located at 401 Gardner St., Borger, TX 79007. Family and friends are welcome to gather and honor the beautiful life Shirley lived and the love she so generously shared.