February 28, 1948 – March 29, 2022
Shirley Dene Rafferty of Plains, Tx was born February 28, 1948 and went home to be with her Lord Jesus on March 29, 2022, She is now reunited with her beloved parents Seviere Thomas McDonnell and Billy Faye Lewellen as well as her sister Helen Darlene Wilson and nephew Jason Thomas Wilson.
Left to mourn her loss are her son Dusty Rafferty of Austin. Her brother Jackie McDonnell and Gale of Plains, nephews Chuck Wilson and Catrina of Cranfills Gap, Brandon McDonnell and Jenette of Mansfield, and niece Heather Ingle and Nate of Karnes City.
She was especially close to her cousin Jana Hunt and Jim of Fort Worth. Dene also had many great nieces and nephews who will miss her terribly. She had a host of precious friends some of which include Toni Jones, Sheri McGinty, Mary Frankfather and Paula Blount Hamm.
Dene was a joy to her friends and family and anyone who knew her, always with a big smile and a friendly word. She graduated from Plains High School in 1966. Her favorite hobbies included cheering on several generations of Plains Cowboy and Cowgirl sports, playing games and spending time with family and friends. Dene loved her Red Raiders as well as following Dusty’s career no matter where he was coaching.
Dene has been a member of First Baptist Church in Plains, Texas her entire life and was always ready to help and serve wherever she was needed. She sang beautifully and was a member of the church choir for many years. One of her greatest joys for over 40 years was officiating volleyball and in 2018 she was recognized with a lifetime achievement award from the Volleyball Association.
Dene loved her co-workers like family wherever she worked including Johnny’s Café as a waitress for more than 20 years, Plains State Bank as teller, Deputy County Clerk, and as Yoakum County Constable.
Visitation will be held April 1st, 2022 at First Baptist Church sanctuary from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. followed by a Celebration of life at 10:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Shinnery Oaks Nursing Home (Activity Fund) 711 Broadway St. Denver City, Tx 79323
