Shirley Jean Messenger

Shirley Jean Messenger, 76, of Abilene, passed away Sunday, November 27, 2022.

Visitation will be from 5:00 to 7:00 pm on Wednesday, November 30, at The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Rd. Funeral services will be at 10:00 am on Thursday, December 1, at Broadview Baptist Church, with David Cason and Wes Terry officiating. Burial will follow at Abilene Municipal Cemetery (Cedar Hill).

She was born on June 21, 1946, in Abilene, to Albert “Jim” and Ima Gene Savell. She began playing the piano at 5 years old, and continued her love for music at Hardin Simmons University, majoring in music. She would play the piano and organ at the church for years to come. Shirley worked for 30 years as a banker at Bank One (Chase Bank). She took pride in her yard and her love for gardening was known by many. She married John Clifton Hayes on April 30, 1981, and they spent nearly 25 years together until his passing on March 31, 2006. On October 16, 2010, Shirley married Lonnie Earl Messenger at Broadview Baptist Church.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents Albert “Jim” Savell and Ima Gene Savell, brother Edward Savell, sister Peggy Savell, Lonnie’s son, Lonnie Earl Messenger, Jr., and beloved pets Tiger and Lucky Dog.

She is survived by her loving husband, Lonnie Messenger; daughter, Sheryl Allen; daughter, Angela Flint; Lonnie’s daughter, Kaynna Clever; Lonnie’s sons, Sam Messenger and Tracy Messenger; her brother, Jimmy Savell; Aunt Sharon “Skeet” McWhorter; five grandchildren, Lonnie’s seven grandchildren, eight combined great-grandchildren, and her dog, Dolli.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hendrick Hospice Care.