Lula Maye Shanks, age 82, of Abilene, Texas and formerly of Muleshoe, Texas, died Wednesday, November 12, 2025 in Abilene. She was born August 18, 1943 in Muleshoe to J.E. and Lula (Wright) Embry. She married Gerald Shanks in Muleshoe on August 26, 1960.

Lula Maye was a busy woman. She never sat still and found something to do all the time. Whether it was reading or working crossword puzzles, or following Gerald around, and keeping him in line and out of trouble. She was known for always sending cards to anyone with a birthday, a sympathy note or even just a “thinking of you”. Lula Maye loved to chase Jeep, her grandkids and her great-grandkids around and watching everything they participated in. She had a strong faith and enjoyed studying and reading her Bible. Lula Maye is preceded in death by her parents and five brothers, Joe Embry, Floyd Embry, Calvin Embry, Chester Embry and Doyle Embry.

Lula Maye is survived by her husband, Gerald; her son, Jeep Shanks and his wife, Patricia of Abilene, Texas; her two granddaughters, Nikki Blake and her husband, David and Kami Dodds and her partner, Heath Parnell; and her four great-grandchildren, Craig Dodds, Cade Dodds, Hagan Blake and Embry Blake.

In lieu of flowers or plants, the family suggests memorials be sent to Hospice of the Big Country, 4601 Hartford Street, Abilene, Texas, 79605.