Shirley Mae Burdette

Shirley Mae Burdette, a beloved fixture of the Battle Creek community and a pillar of her family, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2025, in Zephyrhills, FL, surrounded by her loving family. She was 90 years old. Born to Mr. and Mrs. August Zito on November 11, 1934, in Chicago, IL, Shirley spent her early years in the city before her family moved to Battle Creek after the death of her mother. She attended Battle Creek Public Schools and quickly became known for her lively personality.

On December 7, 1961, Shirley was united in marriage to the love of her life, James Oley Burdette. They built a beautiful home in Battle Creek where they lovingly raised their three children and embarked on a remarkable journey as successful business owners. Shirley was a woman of incredible grit and determination, a true entrepreneurial force. Alongside her husband, she owned and operated numerous establishments that became local institutions, including the Waterburger Drive-In, the Derby Restaurant, Coffee Cup Lunch, the Knight Beat Lounge, the Westway Lounge, and Oley's Lounge. Her passion for her work and her exceptional management skills made her a well-known and respected figure throughout the community. Everyone in Battle Creek knew Shirley; her huge personality and dedicated work ethic were unforgettable. Shirley and James also enjoyed many wonderful adventures together, traveling whenever they had spare time. Shirley was a devoted mother and wife, whose greatest joy was her family. Her entrepreneurial spirit was matched only by her loyalty and love for those closest to her.

Shirley is survived by her loyal and loving son, James Burdette II, 8 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and friends who will cherish her memory. She was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband James Oley Burdette, her daughters Jamie Lynn Burdette and Robin Frame, her grandsons Jason Burdette and William (Billy) Horwath, and her great-grandson Marquis Shephard.

Funeral service and entombment will be held to honor Shirley's life at Floral Lawn Memorial Gardens Mausoleum on Thursday, August 14th, at 10:00 am. Her legacy of strength, determination, and a life lived to the fullest will be remembered by all who knew her. www.henryfuneralhome.org