In Loving Memory of Shirley (Sanders) Bourgeois Coles September 7, 1940 – October 17, 2026 Shirley (Sanders) Bourgeois Coles, of Rowlett, Texas, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2026, at the age of 86. Born on September 7, 1940, in Maplesville, Alabama, Shirley dedicated many years of her life to raising her five daughters, affectionately known as her “5 L’s.” She took great pride in being a nurturing presence in their young lives. Following the loss of her first husband, whom she lovingly called “Tommy,” Shirley embarked on a successful and rewarding career in the travel industry. She served as a supervisor for Braniff Airlines before advancing to become Director of Career Development for Capital City Careers. Throughout her professional journey, she earned numerous certifications and awards recognizing her exceptional leadership, service, and commitment to helping others succeed. She was known by many cherished titles by her family: Mother, Mama, Momma, Mommy, Grandma, Grandma Shirley, Grandmamamama, and Gramshir. Each name reflected the special place she held in the hearts of those who knew her. Shirley leaves behind a legacy through her five daughters, her treasured “5 L’s”: Linda Reil (Keith), Laura Cobb (Harold), Lana Wooldridge (David), Lynette Campbell, and Lesa Farr (Blaine). She is also survived by 10 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, two brothers, Dale Collins (Tina) and Tommy Hofner; her sister, Betty Sullivan, and numerous extended family members and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her husbands, David Thomas Bourgeois and James J. Coles; her mother, Lucille Edna Perdue; her father, J. Ernest Sanders; her stepfather, Clyde C. Perdue; and many beloved relatives who welcomed her into eternal rest. Shirley will be laid to rest beside her first husband, David Thomas Bourgeois, at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio, Texas. A graveside service will be held on Friday, November 20th, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM at 1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd. San Antonio, Texas 78209 (Shelter #2). Ecclesiastes 3:1-4
"To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die... A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance." “There were so many things we thought we would have time to tell you someday…instead we simply say may you know you were loved, now rest in peace Mother, Mama, Momma, Mommy!”