MARION, July 31 – Eva M. Shirlen, 92, of Marion, passed away Wednesday, July 25, 2012, at Hospice House of Rutherford County surrounded by her family. She was a special and devoted wife and mother. She was born August 30, 1919 in McDowell County, to the late Clemming Morgan and Lizzie Mosteller Morgan.

Mrs. Shirlen attended Nealsville Church of God. She loved the Lord and was a prayer warrior, always thanking God for his many blessings. She worked for Clevenger Hoisery Mill and Ethan Allen until the early 1990's.

Left behind to cherish Mrs. Shirlen's memory are six beloved children, Charles Homer Shirlen and wife, Mildred of Lynchburg, Leonard Shirlen and wife, Mary of Monroe, Ruby Latham and husband, John of Marion, Betty Shumaker of Farmville, Jimmy Shirlen and wife, Billie of Biscoe, and Christine Smith and husband, Larry of Morganton; brother, Gene Morgan of Florida; sisters, Esther Lawing and Gurthie Hunter, both of Marion; a special friend, Cathy Byrd of Marion; 17 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents, she is also preceded in death by her husband, the Rev. Enoch Wesley Shirlen; sisters, Ethel Black and Clara Morgan; and brother, Floyd “Whitie” Morgan.

The family would like to say a special “Thank You” to New Horizon Home Care, Hospice of Forest City, Carole Barkham, and special friend Ella, for the love and care shown to Mrs. Shirlen and her family during her illness. Your efforts will never be forgotten.

Kirksey Funeral Home, Marion, served the family.