It is with a heavy heart to share that Shirley Link of St. Louis, formerly of Potosi, Missouri, peacefully passed away on June 17, 2026, at the age of 83.
Born on November 17, 1942, in Courtois, Missouri, she was the daughter of the late Lewis and Nellie (Beers) Merritt.
One of eighteen children, Shirley grew up on the family farm. At family gatherings you would find Shirley, her mom, Sisters and the next generation at their heels learning the art of country cooking.
Though she later moved to St. Louis after marrying her husband, Vince, her strong work ethic remained rooted in her upbringing.
Shirley was a woman of faith and community. In her younger years, she enjoyed playing the piano and attending pie socials at her church.
She cherished her family traditions, especially New Year’s Eve gatherings where she was known for her beloved song
“Proud Mary”-a song she last danced to at her granddaughter’s wedding.
Whether sharing a bowl of chips and salsa with lifelong friends or offering quiet moments of wisdom to her family, she valued every connection.
In her quieter moments, she enjoyed reading her devotional and watching “The Young and the Restless.” She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Vincent Link; her son, Tony Link; her brothers, Jerry, Jack, Frankie, Kenneth, Glen, Jimmy, Johnny, Billy, Junior, and Bobbie Merritt; her sister, Hattie; and five Merritt infants (2 being her triplet siblings).
She is survived and deeply missed by her daughter, Kelly (Jim) Kennedy; her sister, Sharon Lawson & Sister in Law, Norma Link. Her grandchildren: Tony (Misty) Link, Vince Link, Brandon (Amber) Link, Bradley (Kadie) Link, Tara Link, Kayla (Daniel) Campos & Amber Kennedy. Great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
Services: Visitation at Kutis South County Chapel 5255 Lemay Ferry Rd. on Wednesday, June 24, from 10 am until time of service 12 noon. Burial Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers please make donations to First Baptist Church of Arnold Women’s Ministry or Senior Adult Ministries. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18
Kelly, I’m so sorry for the loss of your mom, I know how very proud she was of you and your family. Praying for all of you🩷
I met Shirley in 1988 when I started my job at Bock Pharmacal at 25 years old. We really became close work buddies when she left the Production Department and worked in the office area by my pod. Shirley was truly one of a kind. I am proud to call her one of my dearest friends.
Sending condolences to all of Shirley’s family. She was my best friend, from childhood to when she passed from this life on to eternal life in Heaven. I can’t remember not knowing Shirley since we were only 2 months apart in age. We played in the creek by their house, climbed Apple trees to eat green apples, made playhouses and I could go on and on. We attended a one room school until we graduated from 8th grade. She dearly loved her family and I’m sure she prayed for all of you to accept Jesus Christ as your Savior so you can all live in Heaven forever. I’m proud to call Shirley my dearest friend❤️
Shirley was one of my closest friends. Will never forget her. We worked together several years. Will never forget her.
Kelly and Family,
Thinking of you all during this difficult time. It was a pleasure to be able to care for you Mother Ms. Shirley.
Shirley was such a loving and kind person. I worked with her in food service and she was always so nice to me and very supportive. I’ve kept in touch with her throughout the years although I wish it had been more. I’m sorry for the world‘s loss as she was a very special lady and she will be missed!
Shirley hired me on her Birthday she was one of a kind she retired and i did later and we worked at Sams for 5 years we had great times together she will be missed
I have been best friends with my dear friend Shirley since 1974 and she was truly my BFF. I could share anything with her and it was always just between us. We would go eatt and she always paid and said no. You can’t afford it. She was a great soul who always cared about her family. My friend Shirley will be missed. RIP friend, I will see you again. I love you so much
Kelly and family. I’m so sorry for your loss. I loved that sweet lady. I will miss her. I always loved sitting on the patio having coffee and chatting.
I will keep you all in my prayers. Until we meet again sweet lady.
Kelly~
Your mom was one of the kindest people I have ever met. What a life well lived! Such a sweet reunion with Vince ~ I hope they are watching a Cardinal’s game!
I pray for comfort as you all treasure 83 years of memories.