Shirley Jean Sallee

Shirley Jean Sallee, known for her love and kindness, was born in a farmhouse, on May 2, 1935, in Cleveland, Oklahoma. In her own words, Shirley said, "I was from humble beginnings, but didn't know it until I was grown." Shirley passed away peacefully at Veraden Senior Living in Edmond, Oklahoma, on April 16, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of gentle grace and unwavering faith.
Shirley is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Phil and Carol Sallee; her grandchildren: Sarah Sallee; Julie Sallee Partin, married to Kyle Partin, and their children Cadence, Claire, and Caleb; Jill Sallee Lewolt, married to Brian Lewolt, and their children Corinne, Channing, and Callahan; and Joshua Sallee. She is also survived by her brother-in-law, Alton Roberts; nieces, nephews, and their children and grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, William "Billy" Sallee; their son, Paul Sallee; her parents, Webb and Bulah Fox; her sisters, Dean Cruzen, Molly Gregory, and Liz Roberts; her brother-in-law, Robert Gregory; her nephew Robby Gregory; and her niece Amanda Gregory.
Shirley graduated from Cleveland High School in Cleveland, Oklahoma. She worked in a wide array of jobs but her favorite was the 22 years she served as the receptionist at Eastwood Baptist Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Her dedication to her church community was evident in every interaction, every smile, and every kind word.
In one of her many journals, Shirley wrote about the beginnings of her faith in Jesus: "I remember as a little girl going to church and going down front to be a Christian. I wanted some big feeling or emotion to let me know I was a Christian. It didn't happen. I thought I was a Christian for years but had doubts. When I was an adult in 1976-when Billy's mother was about to die-in thinking about her dying, I realized I needed to become a Christian, that I really wasn't one. I was in Paul's truck and we were at Perry Park by the school. Paul and I talked and I prayed to receive Christ in 1977. Since then I have no doubts that I'm saved. Paul baptized me at Eastwood Baptist Church. Billy had undergone quadruple bypass surgery and his first time out of the house, he came to see me baptized. A lesson God has taught me is that whatever happens to me, He is with me, He loves me, and He will bring me through, even though it might not be exactly what I expect. He wants the best for me."
Shirley found joy in the simple pleasures of life-spending time with her family, shopping trips with her sisters, serving her church, singing, reading, crafts, word puzzles, and spelling. Those who knew Shirley would describe her as a woman of love, kindness, integrity, and gentleness. She approached life with a soft-spoken strength that drew people to her, and her influence extended far beyond her immediate circle.
In her life, Shirley embodied the wisdom of the well-known quote by Mother Teresa, "Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love." As we bid farewell to Shirley Jean Sallee, we are reminded of the indelible mark she left on this world. Her spirit continues to inspire us to live with kindness, to cherish our loved ones, and to serve with a gentle heart. Shirley's memory will be held in the highest regard, and her life's story will continue to be told with admiration and love.