Shirley Mae Daricek, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully and surrounded by her loved ones on Saturday, April 19, 2025 at the age of 79.
Born on February 20, 1946, in Cleveland, Mississippi, Shirley was the daughter of the late Clinton and Doris Tew. She raised her children in Crossett and Calion before moving to El Dorado, Arkansas, where she spent her adult years building a loving home and lifelong friendships rooted in kindness, community, and faith.
Shirley was a devoted Christian and attended Murmil Heights Baptist Church. Her faith was a guiding light in her life, and she found great joy in worship, fellowship, and serving others.
She worked for many years at Walmart before going on to manage Holsum Bakery, where she took great pride in her work and loved building lasting relationships with her customers. Her friendly smile, dependable nature, and warm conversation made her a favorite among both coworkers and those she served.
One of Shirley's greatest joys in life was being a grandmother. She played an especially important role in the lives of her grandchildren Lauren and Chase, whom she helped raise with unconditional love, guidance, and grace. Her nurturing heart and steady presence shaped their lives in countless ways.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Larry Daricek; two infant twins; her parents, Clinton and Doris Tew; her sister, Bobbie Dorris, and her brothers, Charles and Jimmy Tew.
She is survived by her children: Ray (Marsha) Sowyers, Troy (Deana) Sowyers, and Denise Tew. Shirley was a devoted grandmother to Lauren, Chase, Tori, Craig, Joseph, Ashley, Josh, and Branson and a proud great-grandmother to Bryan, Raylee, Brynlee, Paisley, Kylie, Kensley, Wyatt, Joleigh, Chase, Kasen, and Cooper. She also leaves behind her brother, Cleatus Oliver.
Shirley's home was always full of warmth, laughter, and love-even if it was a house divided when it came to football. She was a loyal Arkansas Razorbacks fan, while her beloved Larry proudly rooted for LSU. Game days were full of playful rivalry, a reflection of the deep bond and joy they shared.
Those who knew Shirley will remember her for her gentle soul, her quiet strength, and the unwavering love she had for her family. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the relationships she built, and the memories she leaves behind.
Visitation will be held from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 22, 2025 at Young’s Funeral Directors.
A service to celebrate her life will be held in Young's Chapel at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 23, 2025. Flowers are welcome, as Shirley always found beauty and joy in them.
Condolences can be expressed online at www.youngsfuneralhome.com.
