Shirley Ann Brown Fontenot, age 80, went to meet her Lord and Savior Saturday, January 14, 2017. She spent her last months in the loving care of her oldest daughter. Shirley was born June 6, 1936 to James Robert and Nancy Mullenax Brown of Keechi, Texas, as their only child. At the age of five the family moved to Port Arthur where her father was employed by Texaco. Shirley graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School. She married Horace Roland Fontenot, Jr. on January 15, 1954, who preceded her in death shortly after they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. Shirley and Horace had three daughters. She worked part time at DeQueen Elementary School as a cashier for many years. The children loved "the Ice Cream Lady," a title which suited her well, as she spent much of her extra income buying treats for those who could not afford them. This was who she was - a lover of children with a heart of generosity, opening her door to all who entered. She genuinely loved all people. Her eternal optimism was founded on her faith and the belief that if you trusted and loved Jesus, he would see you through every obstacle. Faithful wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, cousin, and friend, this was who she was. Her grandchildren will remember her smile, her outstretched arms, a heart where they could do no wrong, along with her jars full of candy bars and a freezer full of popsicles and ice cream. She leaves behind a generational legacy and imprint in the hearts of her 3 daughters and their husbands, 8 grandchildren, and 12 great grandchildren, 2 brothers-in-law and their families, as well as a host of friends. She is survived by her three daughters and their husbands, Vickie Jo and Rodney Griffith of Conroe, Texas; Kimberley Chris and Robert Foreman of Orange, Texas; Kelli Rene and David Fields of Woodville, Texas; Stuart Bishop of Groves, Texas; Grandchildren Sarah and Leighton Guarnere; Hannah and Darren Bretting; Joshua Griffith; Dustin and Jessica Pietz; Shane and Andrea Pietz; James and Rachel Doak; Anderson Bishop and Nicholas Bishop; Great-Grandchildren Braiden, Camden, and Landen Guarnere; Cody and Caitlyn Bretting; Keegan, Jax Pietz, Shealeigh and Payton Pietz; Ethan, Jachin, and Raelynn Doak; In-laws Jerry and Bettye Fontenot of Groves, Texas; Dale and Kathy Fontenot of Vidor, Texas. A visitation for family and friends will begin at 9:00 a.m., Wednesday, January 18, 2017 at Levingston Funeral Home in Groves, Texas followed by the funeral service at 10:00 a.m., burial will be at 4:30 p.m. at Kecchi Cemetery in Kecchi, Texas. The family would like to give a special thanks to Altus Hospice for the excellent care of their mother. In honor of her life-long love of furry friends donations may be made to A.S.P.C.A. (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals).
Condolences
Levingston Funeral Home
November 2, 2021
1 file added to the album Obituary Wall
Shirley Ann Brown Fontenot
August 4, 2020
Shirley Ann Fontenot
Anonymous
January 26, 2017
There are no words to express the sadness I feel now for your loss. When the pain of death becomes overwhelming, we can turn to God in prayer. The Bible tells us to "throw all of your anxieties on him, because he cares for you," (1 Peter 5:7). Take comfort in knowing that he loves us and that "one day he will wipe tears from our eyes, and that death will be no more,"(Isaiah 25:8). I hope this scripture gives you peace and endurance during this time of bereavement.
Anonymous
January 23, 2017
May God wrap His arms around you and give you peace.
Anonymous
January 19, 2017
Praying for the family's strength and peace now and in the days to come thru the comforting Ministry of the Holy Spirit.
Anonymous
January 18, 2017
Vickie and Hannah and family - So sorry to hear of the passing of your mom and grandmother. I know you both loved her very much. Prayers for all of you during this time. Annette Donovan
Anonymous
January 17, 2017
Fondest memories of Aunt Shirley! She will be forever in my heart! Love and prayers to all who love her. Tracye
Anonymous
January 17, 2017
I didnt have the opportunity to meet you here,but your daughter is an awesome women of God, my mentor,and friend.I will meet you at the banquet table. Until then, Char.
Anonymous
January 17, 2017
Many Thoughts & Prayers go out to the family in their time of sorrow!
Anonymous
January 17, 2017
Never had a bad bone in her body...was always sweet to me and never treated me different. Heaven has definitely gained another angel. She will truly be missed.