Wendell Earl Shirley

Obituary for Wendell Earl Shirley “Hollywood” April 13, 1951 – July 7, 2025 On the morning of July 7, 2025, at Norman Regional Health Complex, Wendell Earl Shirley—affectionately known as “Hollywood”—peacefully transitioned to be with our Lord and Savior at the age of 74. Born April 13, 1951, in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma, to Buerl and Elsie Shirley of Katie, Oklahoma, Wendell lived a life with his sharp wit, his love of family, and a style all his own. A man of charm and smooth moves, Wendell was given the nickname “Hollywood” early in life. Whether cruising through town or stepping into a family gathering, Wendell was the kind of man who left a lasting impression with his signature grin, gold tooth, and a pair of shades. But behind that cool exterior was a deeply loyal and loving man who would give you the shirt off his back. He graduated from Elmore City High School in 1970, and with a heart full of courage and a desire to serve his country, he enlisted in the United States Army at just 17 years old (though he claimed he was 18). He served in Vietnam from May 1970 to December 1971 with the rank of SP4. Wendell was a hardworking man who spent his career as a machine operator. He was a former member of Gilfield Baptist Church, where he served faithfully as a deacon, and was a current member of New Hope Baptist Church (OKC), where he participated in the Men's Ministry and Sunday School, proudly completing Evangelism 101, 102, and 103. Wendell had a joyful spirit and a deep love for life. From childhood, he enjoyed riding Shetland ponies that his father gifted the kids, fishing and swimming in the nearby creeks and ponds, and getting into mischief with his brother Billie Ray—like fighting bumblebees and returning home with swollen eyes, much to their mother’s dismay. He once snuck the convertible his father bought him speeding down the country roads to visit friends, despite being told not to drive far without a license. He and his siblings would remove their socks and shoes and roll up their pant legs just to cross the creek to attend Sunday service at Sweet Home church. Wendell found joy in simple pleasures: family trips, holiday gatherings, swapping stories with old friends and, and spending quality time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was a devoted husband to Cercia Shirley and a proud father to Victor McDonald; Marva Shirley Dinwiddie (Marion Dinwiddie); and Ebony Shirley Thompson (Jermaine Thompson). His family was his heart. He was the loving grandfather of Timothy Heath (Sarah Heath), Brooklyn McDonald, Morgan Dinwiddie, Tyrese McDonald, Alezia Thompson, Colyn Thompson, Malia Dinwiddie, and Casyn Thompson. His great-grandchildren Addison, Legend, Nyla, Egypt, Londyn, Saint, and Emeri were his pride and joy. Wendell was a cherished brother to Leona Thomas (Tyrone Thomas, deceased), Patricia Ann Shirley (Ronald Norman Sr.), Debra Rhodes (Blake Rhodes, deceased), Tammy Shirley, Billie Ray Shirley (Debbie Shirley), and Steven Shirley. He was preceded in death by his sisters Thelma Braggs (Namon Braggs Sr., deceased), Wilma Frazier (Alphonso Frazier, deceased), Audrey Scott (Calvin Scott,), Helen Dillahunty, and his brothers W.M. Shirley (Clara Shirley) and Larry Shirley. Despite facing many health challenges over the years, Wendell never stopped fighting to be there for his family. His wife Cercia was faithful in caring for him throughout medical appointments, hospital stays, several surgeries and dialysis treatment. He taught his children and grandchildren the value of hard work, resilience, and unconditional love. He was proud of his family for their accomplishments, and he was a constant, steady presence in the lives of those who knew him. He could tell a story that made you laugh until you cried, and he could size up a person’s heart in a single conversation. He loved a good meal, a clean car, and being surrounded by the people he loved most. His legacy lives on in the love he gave, the lessons he taught, and the family he so deeply cherished. Wendell leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws and friends who will miss him dearly. Rest easy, Hollywood. You were one of a kind.

Wendell Earl Shirley

April 13, 1951 - July 7, 2025