Shirley Ann Townsend

Shirley Ann Rich Townsend passed away on Thursday, September 18, 2026, with her devoted husband, George H. Townsend, Jr. by her side. She was born on June 29, 1944, in Clanton, Alabama, and later made Birmingham home for most of her life. A graduate of Woodlawn High School in Birmingham, Shirley built a life rooted in family, faith, grace, and quiet strength.

Shirley was a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend. She had a way of bringing beauty into everyday life, whether through the bright and beautiful things she loved to wear or the care she gave to her garden. Her sense of style, her love of color, and her appreciation for growing things reflected the warmth and spirit she shared with the people around her. She carried her love of color in her wardrobe and in her garden.

After completing her paralegal degree from Samford University, Shirley worked as a legal secretary for Bob Barnett of Barnett, Tingle, Noble and Sexton. She was also a member of and served as president of the Birmingham Legal Secretaries Association. Through her work, she was known for her professionalism, dependability, and mindfulness.

Shirley’s greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her loving husband, George H. Townsend, Jr.; her daughter, Jeanne Townsend Shannon (Tom); her grandchildren, Thomas Battle Shannon, Jr., George Townsend Shannon, Ashley Paige Conner (Nate), and Megan Townsend Perkins (Robert); and her great-grandchildren, Brody Conner and Lawson Perkins and her nieces, Tonya Folsom Pohlel and Tracie Folsom.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Etta, and John A. Rich; her sister, Linda Rich Folsom; and her stepsons, George H. Townsend, III and Michael Bryan Townsend.

Shirley will be remembered for her warmth, resilience, and love. Though deeply missed, her memory will live on through the family she cherished, the friendships she nurtured, and the beauty she brought to the world.

A service celebrating her life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Brown-Wynne Funeral Home located at 200 SE Maynard Rd, Cary, NC.

Flowers may be sent to Brown-Wynne Funeral home or donations can be made to the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews to honor Shirley in a way that reflects the kindness and love she shared throughout her life.