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Shirley Jo
Van Zandt
Jun 25, 1945 — Aug 8, 2026
Odessa, Texas
In Loving Memory of Shirley VanZandt
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Shirley VanZandt, a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and dear friend. Shirley was a proud resident of Odessa, Texas, where she built a life defined by unconditional love, compassion, and unwavering devotion to her family.
There was nothing Shirley loved more than being surrounded by the people she cherished. Her home was always open, her heart was always full, and she found her greatest happiness in spending time with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and the many animals she adored. Whether celebrating holidays, sharing meals, or simply enjoying each other's company, Shirley made every moment feel special. She had a rare gift of making everyone feel welcome, loved, and at home.
Shirley was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Raymond VanZandt; her parents, Joe and Avis Pendleton; her sister, Charlotte Grissom, and husband, Carlton; brother Carl Ray Pendleton; granddaughter Stacy Calvin; grandson Christopher Pope; and great-nephew Sean Ryan Stout.
She leaves behind a family who will forever cherish her memory, including her daughter, Sharlene VanZandt; her son, Justin Collum, and wife Christina, along with their son, Jaxon; her son, Jacob Collum, and wife, Kerigann; son, Scott Moore; son, Joe Moore, and wife, Lisa, their daughters Brianna, Brittney, Ashley, and son Austin and great grand daughter Aubrey; daughter Tracy Watson; Brenda and Edward Pope sons John Eric and Christopher; Sherry and Rick Mczkenzie and son Jeremy. Niece Regina Hoy and husband Terry; Nephew Carl Grissom and wife Kim. She is also survived by a room full of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews and countless other family members whose lives were forever touched by her love.
To know Shirley was to know kindness, strength, and selflessness. She was the heart of her family—the glue that held everyone together for so many years. She was the one who made sure everyone stayed connected, who celebrated every milestone, offered comfort during life's hardest moments, and reminded each of us what family truly means. Her love was constant, her hugs were comforting, and her presence made every gathering feel complete.
The world has lost an extraordinary woman, and those who knew and loved her will feel her absence every single day. While our hearts are broken, we take comfort in knowing that the incredible legacy of love she leaves behind will continue through the generations of family she helped shape.
Shirley will be deeply missed beyond words, but she will never be forgotten. Her love, laughter, wisdom, and the countless memories she created will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.
Though she has been reunited with her beloved husband and those who went before her, the void she leaves behind here is immeasurable. Heaven has gained a beautiful soul, but this world has lost one of its brightest lights.
Until we meet again, we will carry her love with us every day.
May she rest in eternal peace.
Thursday
Sunset Memorial Gardens & Funeral Home
6:00 - 8:00 pm (Central time)
Friday
Sunset Memorial Gardens & Funeral Home
10:00 - 11:00 am (Central time)
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