Shirley Jean Carpenter is now soaring with the eagles, and with her husband, Don Carpenter. Shirley made her journey on February 2, 2026. Shirley was one of five children born to Ben and Florence Jennings, born, on August 18, 1937.

Shirley enjoyed art, writing poetry and music. She attended Carthage High School from 1952-1955. She was in the band, prep band and orchestra, playing snare drums and percussion until graduation in 1955.

Shirley moved to Springfield and worked in several banks/savings and loan companies, landing at Bell Savings and Loan for 25 years until retirement.

Shirley and Don Carpenter married February 3, 1957. They balanced both work and volunteer life which included fishing, hiking, dancing, and culminated with the Missouri Department Of Conservation Eagle Restoration Program. Don and Shirley played a crucial role in bringing eagles back to the state. Shirley often referred to the eagles as ‘her eagles’, and this was a high point for both of them.

Shirley was also, involved in archeology, and was the president of the local Ozark’s Chapter, for close to 10 years. Her work included participating in the Big Eddy dig in Cedar County for several years, where she found many arrowheads (points).

Shirley is survived by her son, Rick Alan Carpenter (Donna), and Shirley’s daughter Kelly Dawn Carpenter and longtime partner John Crosby lll, and two grandchildren, Jon Carpenter and Cory Howard.

Services will be at 11:00 AM Saturday, March 21, 2026 at Greenlawn Funeral Home East, 3540 Seminole St, Springfield, MO 65809.

A reception will follow at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to: Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation P.O. Box 366 Jefferson City, MO 65102-0366    to donate online https://mochf.org/.donate-online/