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SHIRLEY's obituary

Shirley Ann Arnold Tuller (85), of Longview, Texas, went to be with the Lord on Nov. 5, 2020. She is preceded in death by her parents, Van Henry and Evelyn Mae Arnold, her two sisters Ruth Carolyn Lawrence, and Melba Jean Lanford, grandson Eric Christopher Bazzy, and her beloved husband of 62 years, Paul Madison Tuller. Shirley is also survived by her loving children, daughter Rachel Linn Bazzy and husband Chris, of San Antonio, and her son Paul Daniel Tuller and wife Jana, of New Braunfels. “Grand-MiMi” will be lovingly remembered by her four surviving grandchildren and their spouses, including Leah Bazzy Matovich and husband Nick, Zachary Bazzy, Clay Tuller and wife Megan, and Jordan Tuller. She also had four great grandchildren, Olivia, Isaak, Eden, and Ezra Matovich.

Born on Oct. 4, 1935, in San Antonio, Texas, Shirley was the youngest of three daughters. Self-proclaimed “Daddy’s girl”, she grew up in a wonderful, Christian family home, filled with laughter, devotion to God, and solid, family values. Her fondest childhood memories were their constant jokes and laughter together, camping trips across the United States, fishing trips, and joy-filled birthdays. She especially loved the big Thanksgiving dinners with extended family, homemade ice-cream, and the times spent on her grandparents’ farm with her sisters. As a girl, she wore braided pigtails, loved animals, puzzles and games, listening to radio shows, and playing with her doll house, her father made from apple crates. Every evening “Shirl” watched the bus stop at the corner, and waited for Daddy to come home from work.

Shirley was a model student with excellent grades, an accomplished ice skater, artist, and gifted pianist. She graduated from Burbank High School in San Antonio, where she achieved National Honor Society, and served as Head Cheerleader for two of the four years she was on the pep squad. At age 15, Shirley was a bridesmaid in her sister Melba’s wedding, where she met “the cutest boy she’d ever seen”. Shirley wrote in a memoir that she always remembered how handsome Paul looked in his Navy uniform. They dated for years, and she especially enjoyed the bus rides downtown to watch a movie, him in his Navy uniform, and her in her poodle skirt with three petty coats. She was pretty, sweet, shy, sensitive, and very happy with Paul.

Shirley and Paul were married on Oct 14, 1955, and were devoted to one another for 62 years. Their favorite song was “Tenderly”, which was sung at their wedding, and exemplified their attitude towards one another. She also penned that she attributed their successful marriage to strong Christian values and love of God and family. Together, they raised their children in the family traditions; of Church and Bible devotion, of family gatherings, celebrations, birthdays and holidays, of camping and fishing trips, and of always having an attitude of thankfulness and gratitude. Shirley was a devoted wife, loving mother, friendly, caring, and a wonderful hostess to all who entered her well-kept home. She enjoyed people, laughter, her cats, good Mexican food, and banana splits!

In the late ‘70’s, Paul and Shirley formed Tullstar Taping Ministries, and spent over 30 years traveling, attending and recording gospel meetings, debates, and lectureships, spreading the Word of God to over 36 countries. Their passion for the Gospel was evident in both their words and generous deeds. Their labor of love and devotion continues today, thanks to a board of trusted directors. In lieu of flowers or for more information, please go to Tullstar.org.

Shirley will be missed by many friends and family members, her brothers and sisters in Christ at Longview Church of Christ, as well as all those who’s lives where brightened by her jovial attitude, smiling, and happy, friendly nature. Her devoted kitty, Puddin’, stayed right by her side these past few years, and will certainly miss the pampering she always gave him. Shirley will always be remembered for her devotion to God and to her family.

“Together Forever”, graveside services for Shirley will be held on Tuesday, December 8, 2020, beginning promptly at 2:30 PM at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, where Paul is interred as a veteran. You are welcomed to join her family and friends at Committal Shelter (pavilion) number 3.

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So very sorry for your loss, but happy for Shirley! She was a beautiful lady, physically and spiritually. We do miss …
So very sorry for your loss, but happy for Shirley! She was a beautiful lady, physically and spiri…
So very sorry for your loss, but happy for Shirley! She was a b…

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SHIRLEY "MiMi/Grand-MiMi" TULLER