Kerry Leigh McCune

Kerry Leigh (Shirkey) McCune passed away Friday, April 15, 2016, at 60 years of age. Kerry was a kind, loving, and giving person who embodied the spirit of compassion, family bonds, and open arms. Kerry was born on April 1, 1956, to Leo and Edna Shirkey in Stuttgart, Arkansas. She was the youngest of five siblings: Pat Mahl of Wilmington, North Carolina (husband Larry), Carolyn Dodson of Springdale, Marilyn Cox of Almyra, (husband Glenn "Sonny"), Robert "Butch" Shirkey of Southport, North Carolina (wife Kathleen), and Mike Shirkey of Fayetteville. Known as "Kiki," she is survived by her husband Byram McCune of Tontitown, Arkansas, her stepson Asa McCune of Dewey Beach, Delaware, twelve nieces and nephews, seventeen great nieces and nephews, one great-great nephew, and one great-great niece on the way. Each held a special place in her heart. Many years ago, Kerry began a tradition of buying Hallmark Series Christmas ornaments for each of the "greats" and "great-greats." This was a special time as each looked forward to their ornament from her – and it showed that she viewed the kids as much her children as they were their parents. As an avid outdoors person, she loved duck and deer hunting and shared the how-to's with her husband Byram. Trout fishing and spending time on the White River below Bull Shoals became her passion. Time spent there was not only a treat, but a valuable retreat. She often invited family and friends to join her and her husband on these retreats so they could share in a part of her life that she loved. After her retirement from Farmers Insurance Group in Little Rock, and a move to northwest Arkansas, her love for her dogs enticed her to go to work in the veterinary field. She most recently was the Office Manager for Springdale Animal Hospital (formally known as Wiggins Animal Hospital). A memorial graveside service will be 11 a.m. Friday, April 22, at Emanuel Lutheran Cemetery in Stuttgart, weather permitting, otherwise it will be moved to Emanuel Lutheran Church, with a gathering to follow in the community room at the church. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local animal shelter or the Emanuel Lutheran Church of Stuttgart Chapel Fund, 209 South Grand, Stuttgart, Ark. 72160, in Kerry's honor. Arrangements are with Heritage Funeral Home in Springdale, online guest book at www.heritageofnwa.com.