Community Mourns the Passing of Shirley Urban Buergner at 86

Shirley Urban Buergner, a beloved member of the Victoria community, passed away on January 5, 2026, at the age of 86. Known for her deep faith and dedication to family, Shirley was born in Goliad to the late Alton and Willa Mae Boltz Urban.

Legacy of Faith and Family

A long-time member of First English Lutheran Church, Shirley was actively involved in several women’s groups, where she nurtured friendships and shared her unwavering faith. Her spiritual life was marked by daily Bible devotions, reflecting her commitment to her beliefs.

Shirley’s love for gardening was evident in her beautifully maintained home, where she took pride in caring for her plants. An avid reader, she enjoyed exploring various genres, often finding solace in the pages of her favorite books. Her family described her as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and aunt, emphasizing the importance she placed on family connections.

Throughout her life, Shirley cherished quality time spent with her husband, Roger N. Buergner Sr., taking vacations and embarking on day trips to local country towns. The couple enjoyed visiting market days, creating lasting memories in their travels together.

Commemorating a Life Well-Lived

Shirley is survived by her son, Michael R. Thomas; her sisters, Annette Kloesel (Kenneth), Ina Faupel (Robin), and Janet Speer; and her grandchildren: Maegen Crisp (Cameron), Courtney Clark (Constantine), Haley Davis (Brandon), and Jennifer Jasso (Craig). She also leaves behind her stepchildren, Julie Buergner, Roger N. Buergner Jr., and Michael Memmer, along with ten great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and her daughters, Lisa Hardin and Jacque Thomas. A Celebration of Life service will be held on January 16, 2026, at 10:30 AM at Rosewood Funeral Chapel, officiated by Pastor Chip Reynolds. Following the service, Shirley’s ashes will be inurned at Memory Gardens Cemetery.

After the burial, family and friends are invited to gather for a reception at Felger Hall at First English Lutheran Church, providing an opportunity to share memories and celebrate Shirley’s life. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to First English Lutheran Church or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Words of comfort can be shared at www.rosewoodfuneralchapel.com.