Obituary: Lois Herndon
Lois Herndon, a devoted housewife and homemaker, passed away on June 11, 2026, in Bolivar, Tennessee. Born on December 4, 1932, in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, Lois lived a life marked by love, faith, and a deep dedication to her family and community.
From her earliest days, Lois displayed a warm and caring spirit that endeared her to many. She was a woman of strong Catholic faith, which remained a guiding light throughout her life. After making Memphis her home from 1979 until 2010, she embraced the close-knit community of Hardeman County, where she continued to nurture the bonds that defined her existence.
Lois inspired those around her through her many passions. Her love for shopping and crocheting was matched only by her devotion to her family, with whom she shared countless joyful moments. She was an avid traveler, relishing new experiences and the opportunity to explore the world. Lois also had a special fondness for Facebook, which she used to connect with loved ones near and far, and animals, who held a dear place in her heart.
Lois’ legacy lives on through her cherished family. She is survived by her sons, Frank Herndon and Lisa of Silerton, and Tony Messina and Hilda of Nebraska; her daughters, Carol Hardee Cline of Seattle, Washington, and Theresa McReynolds and Steve of Sierra Vista, Arizona; as well as her beloved sister, Margaret Durham of Kentucky. She took immense pride in her role as matriarch, surrounded by six grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren, all of whom were the light of her life.
She was preceded in death by her loving parents, Robert Thomas Cotton and Annie Hamby Cotton, and her devoted husband, William R. Herndon. Their memories remain forever etched in the hearts of those who knew Lois.
A visitation in honor of Lois will be held on June 18, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Shackelford Funeral Directors in Bolivar, Tennessee. Following this, a funeral service will take place at 11:00 a.m.. at the same location. Interment will follow at Silerton Baptist Cemetery.
Lois’ passing leaves a gentle emptiness in the lives of many, but her spirit endures through the love she shared and the memories she created. In every stitch of her crochet, every conversation shared, and every journey taken, her grace and kindness will continue to touch all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed and forever treasured.
Courtesy of Shackelford Funeral Directors, Bolivar, Tennessee.
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