Lena Shipley

Lena Shipley, born on February 23, 1942, in Roosevelt, Missouri, passed away peacefully on March 31, 2026, in Somerville, Tennessee. She was a devoted cook for the Catholic Retreat House and also served her community as a store clerk at Roy's Store in Dora, Missouri. Throughout her life, Lena exemplified dedication and warmth, qualities that touched the lives of many.

A woman of unwavering faith, Lena was a committed Baptist who found strength and solace in her beliefs. Her love for family was paramount, and she cherished the moments spent with her loved ones. She had a passion for sewing and quilting, crafts through which she expressed her creativity and care. In quieter times, she enjoyed working on crossword puzzles, an activity that kept her mind sharp and brought her joy.

Lena's journey took her from Missouri, where she spent much of her life, to Tennessee, where she lived for ten years, and later to Hardeman County, where she spent three years. Each place held memories and connections she treasured deeply.

She is survived by her daughter, Robin Smith of Saulsbury; her sons, Royce Shipley and Diane of Port Orange, Florida, and Rodney Shipley and Deborah of Dora, Missouri; her sisters, Gladys Wyas of St. Charles, Missouri, and Violet Wake of West Plains, Missouri; her brothers, Averill Carter, Larry Carter and Diane, all of Twin Bridges, Missouri; and grandchildren, Danielle, Megan, Casey, Kyle, and Chad. Lena also leaves behind several great-grandchildren and her son-in-law, Lee Jay Tetrick of West Plains, Missouri.

Lena was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dennis "D.D." Shipley; her parents, Eldon Carter and Pansy Collins Carter; her daughter Rhonda Tetrick; her brothers, Carl Carter and Billy Carter; and her sisters, Rosa Collins and Naomi Dominquez.

A visitation will be held on April 11, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a memorial service from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, both at Sweeton Pond Baptist Church, located at T24, R12, S1 Highway 181, Dora, Missouri 65637. Family, friends, and community members are invited to gather in honor of Lena’s life and legacy.

Lena Shipley’s enduring spirit and loving nature remain etched in the hearts of those who knew her. Her contributions to her family and community, together with her abiding faith, continue to inspire. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. Memorial contributions in her name may be sent to the Arthritis Foundation (https://info.arthritis.org/donate-today).