Shirley Mae Franklin Roberts went home to Jesus on March 21, 2025 at the age of 91.  She was born in Choudrant, Louisiana on August 2, 1933 to Roy and Marguerite Franklin.

Shirley married Milton Roberts, and they had three children: Frankie Matthews (Jimmy), Robin Herrod (John), and Milton "Bubba" Roberts (Ronda).  She dearly loved her grandchildren: Sarah Harkins (Jerry), Allison Hartness, Caleb Roberts (Emily), Mary Clark Herrod, Anna Lowrey Herrod, and John Avery Herrod.  Her great grands were very precious to her:  Dalton Hartness (Chloe), Izzy Mae Harkins, and Brooke Mae Roberts.

Shirley also leaves behind a sister, Ann Ivey, and brothers Donald (Robin) and Ronald (Song) Franklin and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Milton "Buck" Roberts; sister, Lorena Hogan and brother-in-law, Bobby Hogan; brother, Charles Franklin and sister-in-law, Carolyn Franklin; and special brother-in-law, Von Ivey; and special sister-in-law, Lettie Maude Roberts.

Shirley loved the Lord and her faith was strong.  She was a longtime member of Mt. Ararat Baptist Church.  When her health no longer permitted her to live at home, she moved to Alpine Nursing Home in Ruston, where she lived for the past ten years.  Shirley regularly enjoyed Sunday School and church services there.  She felt there was something lacking so she started a prayer time and Bible Study every Wednesday.  She had many close friends among the residents and staff. The love and care shown by the CNA's and staff made Shirley feel like they were part of her family.

Serving as pallbearers are Caleb Roberts, John Avery Herrod, Dalton Hartness, George Roberts, Mike Hogan, Robert "Peanut" Franklin, and honorary pallbearer, Albert "Buddy" Ivey.

Funeral services will be held at Mt. Ararat Baptist Church in Downsville, LA on Monday, March 24.  Visitation will be at the church from 1:30 - 3:00 p.m. with the service beginning at 3:00 p.m. officiated by Bro. Ricky Houck and Bill Sanderson. Interment will follow at Mt. Ararat Cemetery.  Arrangements are under the direction of Farrar Funeral Home in Farmerville, LA.