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Cooper Today
By the People, for the People
Shirley Marie King, Longtime Texas Nurse, Dies at 83
King was an active member of Emberson Baptist Church and loved caring for animals.
Mar. 30, 2026 at 2:20pm
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The tranquil setting that Shirley Marie King cherished reflects her lifelong commitment to caring for others and finding joy in the simple pleasures of nature.Cooper TodayShirley Marie King, an 83-year-old resident of Sumner, Texas, passed away on March 27, 2026 at Medical City Plano. King worked as a nurse for over 40 years and was an active member of Emberson Baptist Church, where she sang in the choir. She enjoyed spending time outdoors and caring for animals, and even after her death, her pacemaker was donated to the Texas A&M Veterinary Department to be used in animal medical care.
Why it matters
Shirley Marie King's life story highlights the impact that dedicated community members can have, both through their careers and their personal passions. Her lifelong commitment to nursing and her love of animals reflect the values of service and compassion that are important to many Texans.
The details
King was born in Cooper, Texas to Curtis Lee and Doris Marie Phillips. She married Billy Joe King on April 29, 1961, and he preceded her in death. King worked as a nurse for over 40 years and was an active member of Emberson Baptist Church, where she sang in the choir. She enjoyed spending time outdoors, particularly sitting on the swing under her oak trees. King also loved caring for animals, and even after her death, her pacemaker was donated to the Texas A&M Veterinary Department to be used in animal medical care.
- Shirley Marie King passed away on March 27, 2026.
- A memorial service for King has been set for Friday, April 3, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Emberson Baptist Church.
The players
Shirley Marie King
An 83-year-old resident of Sumner, Texas who worked as a nurse for over 40 years and was an active member of Emberson Baptist Church.
Billy Joe King
Shirley Marie King's late husband.
Curtis Lee Phillips
Shirley Marie King's father.
Doris Marie Phillips
Shirley Marie King's mother.
Dr. Gary Reed
The officiant for Shirley Marie King's memorial service.
The takeaway
Shirley Marie King's life was defined by her dedication to nursing, her love of animals, and her active involvement in her local church community. Her selfless act of donating her pacemaker to help animals even after her passing is a testament to her compassionate spirit and the lasting impact she had on those around her.