WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Fairah Eileen “Shorty” Stokes, age 97, of White Pigeon, went to be with her Heavenly Father Wednesday, April 12, 2023 surrounded by her loving family.
She was born November 11, 1925 in Oil Trough, Ark., the daughter of Robb and Myrtle (Davidson) Phifer. She grew up in Bald Knob, Ark. as the oldest of eight children, where she spent most of her time looking after her brothers and sisters.
On March 27, 1943, Shorty was married to John Richard Kilburn until he died in World War II. She then married Raymond Stokes on January 26, 1945. They were married for 34 years.
She worked at Continental Can, Tri-River Inc. as well as at several area nursing homes.
Shorty’s faith was strong and she was a member of Calvary Missionary Baptist Church for many years. Her priorities were church and family.
Remaining to cherish her memory are her children, Tommy (Linda) Stokes of Three Rivers, Patricia (Mike) Dailey of Three Rivers, Richard (Bettie) Kilburn of White Pigeon, and Donald (Judy) Kilburn of Portage; 10 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren, two brothers and three sisters.
She was preceded in death by her husbands, John Richard Kilburn and Raymond Stokes; parents; stepfather, Andy Jones; brothers, Doyle Jones and Lynn Jones; grandson, Tommy Allen Stokes.
Visitation will be held Monday, April 17, 2023 from 5:00 to 7:00 at Hohner Funeral Home, 1004 Arnold St., Three Rivers. Visitation will also be held at the funeral home on Tuesday, April 18, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. until time of funeral service at 11:00. Pastor Charles Johnson will officiate. She will be laid to rest in the Riverside Cemetery.
Donations in Shorty’s memory may be directed to Three Rivers Hospice or Calvary Missionary Baptist Church. Envelopes are available at the funeral home.
I remember Aunt Shorty well. She and my mom, Mary Taylor, were friends from Bald Knob and came to be here in Michigan and remained good friends many years. My heartfelt condolences to the family on her passing. I will keep you all in my prayers. Rest in Heaven Aunt Shorty. I live a block from the Three Rivers house where you lived. and think about you and Uncle Raymond often. Wonderful childhood memories for me.