SHIRLEY JEAN CREIGHTON, age 51, lost her courageous battle with cancer. Shirley passed on to be with the Lord on Sunday, November 17, 2002. Born on September 7, 1951, Shirley was a native of Houston and a long time Continental Airlines employee.  Preceded in death by her father, Bennie Opela, and her infant daughter Lauren. Survivors include her mother, Dolores Opela, husband, James Russell, and siblings-Ann Walker, Linda Hochman, Tony Opela, Patsy Opela, Barbie Hayes and Theresa Rougeau. Other survivors include her nieces, nephews and numerous friends. To Shirley's best friends, Barbara Amari and Jeanic Bratcher, you both were there when we needed you the most. The family would also like to extend their deepest appreciation to Dr. Yen and to the staff at Houston N.W. Medical Center for the loving care given to Shirley during her illness. We will all miss her dearly. Hours for visitation will be 5pm-9pm on Tuesday, November 19, 2002. Rosary at 7pm at Santana Funeral Directors, 5352 Katy Frwy., Houston, Texas 77007. Funeral services are 1:30pm for Wednesday, November 20, 2002 at Lakewood Church. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to the American Cancer Society.