Shirl Frances (Johnson) Page

Shirl (Johnson) Page, lovingly known as MeMe, passed away peacefully at age 72 in her home on October 8, 2025, surrounded by love.

Born on October 14, 1952, in Fort Smith, Arkansas, Shirl was the daughter of Thomas Johnson and Mary (Hunter) Hall. She graduated from Van Buren High School in 1970 and later earned her associate degree from Westark College in Fort Smith.

Shirl married the love of her life, Almon “Joey” Page, and together they built a life filled with deep devotion, laughter, and cherished memories. She worked for Sebastian County for over 34 years, from 1982 until 2017, in various jobs, including her most loved as the Drug Court Coordinator as well as with the county clerks office, county jail, and the sheriff’s office. She used her nurturing spirit to guide countless veterans to drug court offenders, giving her a 100% rate of her graduates not reoffending. She was also recognized in Washington, D.C. for having the Drug Court program of the year.

Shirl was a woman of deep faith who lived her life in service to others. She found joy in nurturing her plants, cooking for her family and friends, and giving generously of her time and resources. She was especially passionate about supporting the Salvation Army and the NAACP. Shirl would like to be remembered for the love she had for everyone. She is known for her service to anyone she could help. When a family had a crisis, Shirl was often the first there to lend support, especially through her cooking. Her tongue was no stranger to giving you the truth, wanted or not. Shirl could always be counted on to help you get back on your feet. There will never be another Shirl Page, but she lives on with us.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas Johnson and Mary Hall, and her sister, Rita Gilyard.

Left to honor her memory are her loving husband, Almon “Joey” Page; her children: Forrest Williams of Dallas, TX, Prentice Williams of Fort Smith, AR, and Evette Page of Fort Smith, AR; her 11 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. She is also lovingly remembered by her niece, Shelba Gilyard Lee, her best friends from Kansas City Beverly Kemp and Choice Moore, with a host of extended family and friends.

A wake will be held on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Lewis Funeral Chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to local homeless shelters in Shirl’s honor.

Joey, Evette, PJ and Little Brother thank you all for your continued support. It is noticed, and we are grateful.

Arrangements are under the care of Lewis Funeral Chapel.

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