Shirley Ann Sears

Shirley Ann Sears (Noblitt), 85-year-old Nowata resident, passed away September 5, 2025, at The Journey Home in Bartlesville, surrounded by her family. Shirley was born February 17, 1940, in Talala, Oklahoma to Elsworth and Rosie (Jordan) Noblitt.

Shirley grew up between Talala and Nowata. She married Ralph Sears and the two made their home in Nowata. Shirley dedicated her life to being a homemaker, caring for the needs of her family. She was a devoted member of Nowata First Baptist Church where she spent many summers teaching Vacation Bible School. In her spare time, Shirley enjoyed quilting.

Shirley is survived by her children, Michael Sears of Sapulpa, Kevin Sears (Beverly) of Nowata, and Deanna Harvey of Nowata; grandchildren, Samantha Kipps (Daniel) of Skiatook, Kevin E. Sears of Nowata, and Destiny Hill of Nowata; great grandchildren, Colton Kipps, Miranda Kipps, Sierra Kipps; siblings, June Neal of Owasso and Roy Noblitt of Nowata.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph; parents; and brother, Walter Noblitt.

The family will receive friends from 5:00-7:00 P.M., Thursday, September 11, 2025, at Benjamin Funeral Service. A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, September 12, 2025, at 10:00 A.M. at Nowata First Baptist Church with Pastor Mark McEuen officiating. Interment will follow in Nowata Memorial Park Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at www.honoringmemoriesnowata.com or on the funeral home Facebook page. Arrangements are in the care of Benjamin Funeral Service of Nowata.