Shirley Macheers Johnson Knightly's Obituary
SHIRLEY MACHEERS JOHNSON KNIGHTLY
Shirley Macheers Johnson Knightly, age 91, passed away on February 19, 2026.
Shirley was born on October 5, 1934 to William and Helen Macheers.
Shirley graduated from Pittsburg High School in 1952. She worked for Southwestern Bell for 34 years as a local and long-distance operator and plant frame attendant, retiring in 1986. Shirley was a lifelong member of First Christian Church serving numerous terms as Elder, was active with Disciples Women and the Seekers Sunday School class.
Shirley was a wonderful cook, preparing countless church dinners as well as memorable family dinners. She loved working in her flower gardens which she called her happy place, sharing bouquets and starts from her wide variety of plants with family and friends. Shirley also loved oil painting and has shared many of her creations with her family members. She loved family time playing table games, especially a rambunctious game of Shanghai.
Shirley married Charles Johnson in 1954. Together they had two daughters, Susan Drenik and Janet Phalen. Charles preceded her in death in 1992. Shirley and John Knightly married in 1997. They loved their home and gardens, were members of the Pittsburg Garden Club and traveled extensively, enjoying many trips within the U.S. and abroad.
Shirley is survived by her husband John, daughter Susan Drenik, granddaughter Alicia Bailey (Dustin), great grandsons Trevor Drenik, Tyler Bailey and Carter Bailey and many nieces and nephews.
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, first husband Charles, daughter Janet and brother William Macheers.
Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, February 24, 2026 followed by a Celebration of Life at the First Christian Church, Pittsburg, KS. Burial will follow at Garden of Memories Cemetery. Condolences may be left at https://www.bathnaylor.com In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials to First Christian Church. Services and arrangements are under the direction of the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home 522 S. Broadway, Pittsburg, KS.
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