~~Shirley Sexton Tilghman peacefully passed away on Tuesday, April 19. This elegant, extraordinarily beautiful, spirited lady with a captivating smile, exuded style, creativity and design in all aspects of her life. Her writings were perfection, she loved history, was a gifted linguist and possessed an innate curiosity that led her from one adventure to another throughout her life. While working with the Quadricentennial in 1959, she came to love and admire her new Spanish friends. In return, these artists embraced her and welcomed her to their country where all were intrigued by this beautiful American woman, living in Madrid, driving from Toledo to Santander experiencing Spain through their loving eyes. She was among the gypsies as they danced in intimate settings where no tourists were allowed, and, after this, she studied and practiced flamenco with precision and impeccable form. Spain would forever be a part of her life. She continued her passion for travel leading small select tour groups throughout Europe. There is only the memory of the Spanish Village, but, in the early 1980's, still in touch with Eduardo Anievas, the esteemed Spanish sculptor, she worked with the City of Pensacola as they placed two pieces of his sculpture, Andrew Jackson in Plaza Ferdinand, and "Yo Solo" in Fort George Park for all to enjoy. "Southwind", her home on Bayshore Drive for many years, and "Steeple House", the Victorian home she restored in the mid-1980's, are fine examples of her keen eye for design. Great detail and thought were given not only to the interiors, but extended out into the grounds with gardens of views with native growth she cherished and protected. In the 1970's, she continued her education interrupted by the Depression. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from UWF with a Bachelor of Arts degree and was a member of the Theta Chi Chapter of the Phi Beta Kappa National Honor Fraternity and a member of the Omicron Chapter Phi Alpha Honorary Society. Born on March 22, in Norfolk, VA to Carlton and Berniece Sexton, she and her family later moved to Pensacola. She adored and admired her parents and brother, Carlton, with great pride. A favorite memory was dancing with brother Carlton at Scenic Terrace in their younger years. She married Frank E. Welles, Jr., and they had two daughters. Shirley and Junie were very active in Pensacola society with a wonderful group of friends. Their marriage ended, and Shirley later married O.G. Tilghman, who predeceased her in 1999. Shirley was a member of numerous clubs and groups throughout her lifetime and was a member emeritus of the Junior League of Pensacola. Her generosity, graciousness, impeccable manners, free spirit and beautiful smile earned many lifelong friends and admirers. She could easily make the mundane fun, the ordinary extraordinary and an invitation to her home something to treasure. She loved entertaining Pensacola friends with a game of croquet on the grounds of her beloved "Steeple House". Shirley was truly unique and had a profound effect on the lives of all of those she encountered. She led by examples of faith, pride, grace, courage and great strength. Yves Saint Laurant's immortal words describe her best of all: "Fashions fade, but style is eternal."She is survived by Shirley Welles Ritchie, Jennifer Welles Lane and her family, and her brother Carlton Sexton, his wife Letitia and their children.A private memorial service will be held at a later date.In lieu of flowers, please donate to Favor House, 2001 West Blount St., Pensacola, FL 32501.HARPER-MORRIS MEMORIAL CHAPEL is in charge of arrangements