Obituary: Fairah Eileen “Shorty” Stokes

Fairah Eileen “Shorty” Stokes, 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 was held Monday, April 17, 2023 at Hohner Funeral Home in Three Rivers, and her funeral was held Tuesday, April 18, 2023 at the funeral home with Pastor Charles Johnson officiating. She was 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.
Online condolences may be shared at www.hohnerfh.com.