Robert Lael Shirley, 88, passed away in Oklahoma City, following an extended illness.

Robert was born in Pauls Valley on November 25, 1936 to Lewis Lael & Mildred Lorraine Shirley, he spent his formative years in Wynnewood where he received his elementary and secondary education, graduating in 1954 from Wynnewood High School, Dr. Shirley attended New Mexico Military Institute from 1955 through 1956, followed by dental school at Baylor University where he received his degree in Dentistry, while in his last years of Dental School Robert joined the Navy Reserves.

Robert married the love of his life Marilyn Sue Bishop on July 15, 1961 in Wynnewood, OK. Shortly thereafter, in 1962, Robert went on active duty serving his country in the U. S. Navy as a Dentist, he was stationed at the Marine Corps Air Station in El Toro, California, he was honorably discharged from active service in 1965 with the rank of Lieutenant. Dr. Shirley continued his service to his country in the U. S. Navy Active Reserves traveling to Dallas each month to the Naval Air Station where he attended to the needs of the Marines on base. In 1981 he was discharged with the rank of Captain, retiring as the commanding officer of his unit.

Robert enjoyed a long and successful career providing dental care at his clinic Robert L. Shirley, DDS located at 5200 N. Portland in Oklahoma City.

Robert's passion was music playing numerous wind instruments, clarinet was his instrument of choice, Robert used his musical gifts throughout his life and was a member of the University of Oklahoma New Horizons Band, the Nichols Hills Summer Band and he would perform for various organizations and events.

Among his many hobbies he was an avid traveler, a licensed pilot and sportsman he loved fishing.

Robert is survived by his loving and devoted wife Marilyn, and a host of nieces, nephews and friends whose lives he touched.

No public visitation is planned

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, March 8, 2025 at the Oaklawn Cemetery in Wynnewood, Oklahoma

In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials to the University of Oklahoma New Horizons Band

Services are under the direction of Vondel L. Smith & Sons Mortuary 13125 N. MacArthur Boulevard Oklahoma City, OK 73142. Visit www.vondelsmithmortuary.com to share a memory or leave a message of comfort for the family