Mother Shirley Temple (Payton) Clark

July 1, 1948 ~ April 11, 2025 76 Years Old

Mother Shirley Temple Payton Clark, a beacon of love and strength, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2025, in South Bend, IN, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and community service. Born on July 1, 1948, in Brownsville, TN, to the late Elder Carey Payton and Jennie (Estes) Payton, Shirley's life was a testament to the power of nurturing and kindness.

Shirley's journey through life was marked by her unwavering commitment to her family, her faith, and her community. A proud graduate of John Adams High School in 1966, she excelled academically, receiving high honors for her dedication and hard work. Her educational achievements laid the foundation for a life devoted to caring for others.

After attending Indiana State, Shirley became a professional at nursing and home health care which was not just a job but a calling. Shirley poured her heart into every life she touched, treating those she cared for as if they were her own family. Her sons, Shannon Carey Clark and Robert Lamont Clark, her foster daughter, Danita DeArmond, and her bonus son, Richard (Teresa) Cromartie, were the center of her world. She nurtured them with love, wisdom, and the kind of support that empowers one to reach for the stars.

Shirley's love extended to her grandchildren, Austin Jordan Clark, Shannon Christopher Clark, Cameron Kingston Clark, Jennifer Cromartie, Christine Cromartie, RJ Cromartie, Skylar Clark, Delaney Cromartie, Tate Clark, Malik Gieger, Camille Cromartie, Brendan Cromartie, and Tiffany Cromartie. Each of them was a precious gem in her crown of life, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Her cousin, Darrell Cromartie, Robert Preston Estes, and her loving aunt, Princess Powell, along with a host of nieces and nephews including Mike Clark, Marvin, Clarence and Kim Wigfall, Jennifer Miller Wood, and Jeanie Smith, all held a special place in her heart.

Shirley's life was also marked by loss, including the passing of her beloved son, Robert L. Clark, along with, Hattie L. Manna, Annie M. Jones, Norris Evans, Laura Lee, Hattie E. Waters, Velma Richmond, Lathell Estes, Earlene Estes, Preston Estes, Marian Cromartie, Marie Cromartie, Olivia J. Smith, William Hendrix, Craig Clark and Mother Alice Crumedy. Yet, through each sorrow, she remained a pillar of resilience, teaching us all that love never truly leaves us, it simply transforms into the memories we hold dear.

An active member of Lake Chapel Primitive Baptist Church, Shirley saw her church as her second home. She dedicated herself to creating a warm and safe space for worship and fellowship. Her faith was her compass, guiding her through life's storms and into the sunshine of service and community. Shirley's passion for life was evident in her favorite hobby, shopping. She found delight in the simple pleasure of finding the perfect gift for her loved ones, a testament to her thoughtful nature. 

To her friends, neighbors, and godparents, Doris Sam (Riven), and all who were fortunate to know her, it was a privilege to share in the love and life of Shirley.  She was more than just a familiar face; she was the embodiment of generosity and care. Her spirit of giving and her infectious smile will be remembered by all who had the privilege of crossing her path.

Funeral services for Shirley, will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 26, 2025 at Lake Chapel Primitive Baptist Church, 202 Lake St. South Bend, IN. Friends may visit with the family one hour prior to services at the church. Graveside services and burial will immediately follow at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in South Bend. Palmer Funeral Home – West Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

Memorial contributions can be made in Shirley’s honor to Lake Chapel Primitive Baptist Church, 202 Lake St. South Bend, IN 46619.

Online condolences may be left for the family by visiting www.palmerfuneralhomes.com

4/18/2025 djb

https://www.palmerfuneralhomes.com/obituary/MotherShirley-TempleClark