Vincent Raif Shirley's Obituary
Vincent Raif Shirley, 49, went to be with his heavenly Father on October 2, 2021. Vince was born on March 18, 1972, to Wanda Baker and John Shirley, in Houston, Texas. He graduated from the University of Arkansas in 1994 and married the love of his life, Joy, in 1995. Together with their children, they made their home in Northwest Arkansas.
Vince worked for Tyson Foods, Food Service and Quality Assurance for the past 28 years. He also served as a past board member for the Mount Olive Water Association. Vince was a believer in Christ. He was in the Word daily and lived his life as if he may be the only bible someone ever read.
Vince found happiness in the outdoors when he was with those he loved. He loved farming, jeeping, and anything involving the water, especially spending time on the lake or trout fishing with his family and friends. Vince loved having fun. He would often complete his weekends providing amazing bbq - his meat smoking skills were known (and enjoyed!) by all. Sunday Funday was his favorite day of the week!
Vince was known for his humble demeanor, compassionate heart, and gentle spirit. He was steadfast, honest, loyal, purposeful, and a blessing to those in his life. Vince loved his family and friends fiercely and will be remembered for his unwavering devotion. His children were a constant source of happiness to him and truly his pride and joy. There was no doubt that his wife and family always came first!
He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Joy Posey Shirley, of Elkins; children Jace and Bryn Shirley, both of Elkins; parents of John Shirley of Freeport, TX and Wanda Baker (Fred) of Crosby, TX; brother David Shirley (Laura) of Lake Jackson, TX; mother-in-law Sandra Posey of Elkins, father-in-law Tom Posey (Joyce) of Bella Vista; brother-in-law Ken Posey (Leslie) of Fayetteville; nephew Brock (Sara) Posey of Elkins; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, and colleagues. Vince was preceded in death by his grandparents Douglas Cromeenes, Marie Ingle, Virgil R Shirley, and brother-in-law Paul Posey.
Vince will be missed beyond measure. Without a shadow of a doubt, he was welcomed by the Lord by being told “well done my good and faithful servant.” He set an example for us all!
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 6 from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. at Nelson-Berna Funeral Home, 4520 N. Crossover Road, Fayetteville. Per Vince’s wishes, a small private funeral will be held. To view a live stream of the service, please visit https://my.gather.app/remember/vincent-vince-raif-shirley
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to The Buffalo River Foundation. https://www.buffaloriverfoundation.org/donate
To sign the online guest book please visit www.bernafuneralhomes.com
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