Lillian Ayres Shirley passed away Tuesday, March 9, 2010. She was born June 23, 1914 in Rowden, Texas. She attended school in Coleman, Texas and graduate from Daniel Baker College in Brownwood, Texas. Lillian taught school in Grosvenor, TX, Kermit, TX, and Birmingham, AL. She Married Lester E. Shirley September 15, 1945 in Coleman, Texas. In 1947 she moved to Midland and taught in Midland Schools for 25 years and in 1994 she retired. Lillian was a charter member at St. Mark's United Methodist Church, National Retired Teacher Association, Texas State Teachers Association, Midland Retired Teachers Association, and Texas Retired Teachers Association. She is survived by her beloved husband of 65 years, Lester Shirley; two daughters, Linda S. and husband Gary James of Adrian, TX; Evelyn Corbett of Big Spring, TX; four grandchildren, Dawn Blashill of Bemidji, MN; Buddy Chancellor of Bemidji, MN; Mike James of Seattle, WA; and Thomas James and wife Charla of Caldwell, TX; three great grandchildren, three great great grandchildren; two nephews and numerous cousins. The family will receive friends at Ellis Funeral Home, Friday, March 12, 2010 between the hours of 6:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M. Graveside services have been scheduled for 2:00 P.M., Saturday, March 13, 2010 at Resthaven Memorial Park. Arrangements are under the direction of Ellis Funeral Home. Condolences may be offered at www.ellisfunerals.com. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to St. Mark's United Methodist Church, 1701 N. Main, Midland, Texas 79701 and Hospice of Midland, PO Box 2621, Midland, Texas 79702.