Shirley Onita (Hightower) Garner, a resident of McKinney, Texas, passed away September 19, 2026 at the age of 91. She was born on April 14, 1935, to her loving parents, Leon Hightower and Ethel (Cooper) Hightower in Chatham, Louisiana. During high school she enjoyed playing basketball, softball and volleyball. Education was important to her. Shirley earned a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, and Plus 30 post graduate hours in education all from Louisiana Tech.
During her 30-year career in teaching elementary school, she loved the hundreds of 2nd through 6th grade students. She was a member of the teacher’s sorority Kappa Kappa Iota.
On September 1, 1957, Shirley married the love of her life, Jackie B. Garner, in Jonesboro, Louisiana. Together, they built a loving life and raised two daughters, Tina and Dawn. Family and her faith in Jesus Christ were at the heart of Shirley’s life. She loved her family dearly and prayed for them daily.
Shirley enjoyed bowling, golf, reading and playing games with her family and friends. She will be remembered for her caring heart, devotion to her family, steadfast faith, and the many lives she touched throughout her years as a wife, mother, teacher, and friend. She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and cherished memories that will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
Shirley is survived by her beloved husband of 69 years, Jackie B. Garner of McKinney, Texas; daughters, Tina Garner Steenburg and husband, Al, of McKinney, Texas, and Dawn Garner McLean and husband, Eric, of Trinidad, Texas; grandchildren, Andrew Steenburg of McKinney, Texas, James Steenburg (Jessie) of Plano, Texas, Mason Schultz and Lexi Schultz both of Dallas, Texas, Josh Schultz of Dekalb, Illinois, Taylor House (Aaron) of Fort Worth, Texas, Austin McLean (Trina) of Aubrey, Texas, and Madi McLean of Arlington, Texas; 5 great grandchildren; sister, Carolyn Verrett; and a host of extended family members and friends, who will miss her and cherish her memory.
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Leon and Ethel Hightower, brother, Jackie Hightower, and sister, Annette Waters.
On Saturday, October 3, 2026, visitation will be held at 9:00 a.m. followed by a memorial service at 10:00 a.m. in the chapel at First McKinney Baptist Church, 1615 W Louisiana Street, McKinney, Texas 75069.
Following the service, inurnment will take place at Ridgeview Memorial Park, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Agape class at First McKinney Baptist Church.