Roll Call Tribute

Shirley Sue (Sutter) Windhorst

October 15, 1953 - February 14, 2023

Mrs. Shirley Windhorst passed away on February 14, 2023 at her home. She was 69 years old.

She is survived by her husband Kenneth and her son Zach, his wife Stephanie, and her grandchildren Avery and Gage; her brothers Ronnie, John, and Thomas Sutter and numerous cousins, nephews, and nieces.

Kenneth and Shirley were married for 44 years. She was born in Waco, Texas on October 15, 1953 to J.T. and Barbara Sutter. She graduated from Pascal High School in Fort Worth in 1971.

She then attended the University of Corpus Christi, now Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, and graduated from Texas A&M University in College Station in 1975 with a degree in Zoology. Then, Shirley graduated from Pan American University, now the University of Texas-Pan American, in 1981 with a degree in marine biology. She worked at the Fort Worth Zoo, for NOAA, and became a high school teacher and college instructor.

Shirley’s heart was in volunteer service. She made significant contributions to several organizations including the Texas State Aquarium, Texas Turtle Patrol, Salvation Army, Meals on Wheels, the United Methodist Church, and the San Patricio County Literacy Program. She was also a Texas Master Naturalist and worked on projects to beautify areas in South Texas.

A memorial service for Shirley will be held at the First United Methodist Church in Portland, Texas at 4pm on Saturday, March 4, 2023.

Donations may be directed to the American Cancer Society at cancer.org or the Texas State Aquarium at texasstateaquarium.org.

Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of the professionals at Winsteads’ Funeral Home. (361) 643-6564 www.winsteadsfuneralhome.com