Portales mother lives perfect life

As close to perfect as possible is how Judy Shirley said she will always remember her mother Christena Shirley, who died Thursday, June 5, 2003, at her home.

And warm-hearted love combined with respect is how Judy said her mother believed in living life.

“No matter how much we (children) tried, we could never hold a candle to Momma,” Judy said. “Her light shone bright. She was quite an inspiration to each of us and if we just follower her example we’ll all go far in life.”

Strong spiritual faith is something Christena believed in wholeheartedly, Judy said, which is another virtue she said she cherish about her mother.

No matter what her physical condition or how hectic her life may have ever Christena’s would continue to look for the good in life, Judy said.

“Momma always had a smile no matter what, and she always tried to show her family that good can come out of anything so don’t dwell on the negative but focus on the positive,” Judy said.

Judy’s brother Jim Shirley said he never will forget his mother’s pleasant attitude or her neverending love for family. Jim said he admired his mother’s strong faith in Christ and appreciates the life lessons his mother has shared with him throughout the years.

“She taught us to never forget to be honest

and do right by everybody you can,” Jim said. “I’m really going to miss her love and good home cooking.”

When Christena wasn’t busy caring for other people or lending an ear for someone in who needed to talk, Judy said her mother would pass the time quilting, sewing, cooking or gardening.

“She had a real green thumb. You could take a plant or flower to her almost completely wilted and she’d bring it back to life then before long it would be blooming,” Judy said.

Above all, Judy said she’ll never forget her mother’s belief about how to approach the world.

“She always instilled in us that if there was love in the world that the biggest problem could be solved if we just remember to love and care for each other,” Judy said.