Shirley Kirkland Smith

Shirley attended high school in Waverly, Texas. On February 23, 1959, she married the love of her life, Fred Smith, and they shared 53 devoted years of marriage until his passing in 2012.

A woman of deep faith, Shirley was Baptist and a faithful member of Central Baptist Church of Athens, where she attended services until her health no longer allowed. She and Fred were baptized together on April 16, 1967, at Pilgrim Baptist Church in Dallas, a moment that marked their shared spiritual journey.

Shirley was an astute and accomplished businesswoman. She worked for Sears and Roebuck for many years, leading the catalog department with skill and dedication. Later, she fulfilled a dream by purchasing and operating her own beauty shop, which she ran successfully for as long as her health permitted. Never one to slow down, Shirley then entered the field of real estate, working with Coldwell Banker and Anderson Realtors from 1997 until 2012, retiring at the age of 77.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Fred Smith; her infant daughter, Freda Ann; her parents, Ceryl and Thedolia Kirkland; and her siblings Windell, Charles, Don, Judy, Paul Dean, and Roma.

Left to cherish her memory are her sister, Ruth Tullos (Frank), along with a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff of Brookdale South, who cared for Shirley during her final year, and to 3 Oaks Hospice for their attentive and loving care.

Special thanks are also given to her faithful friends Bro. Charles, Chris, Larry, and Susan, whose visits, prayers, and constant check-ins meant so much to Shirley and her family.

Shirley will be remembered for her strength, faith, work ethic, and the quiet grace with which she lived her life.