Shirley Laverne Carnell

Shirley Laverne Carnell was born May 1st, 1937 in Racine, Wisconsin. She joined her older brother, Melvin and later added another brother, Larry 10 years later. The family relocated to Vallejo, Californian in 1944 and in 1946, moved to Fresno, CA where she graduated from Fresno High School with a major in Commerce.

Her father helped start the Fresno Rescue Mission and that is where he died just as he had desired. He had just given his testimony when he breathed his last breath. With a New Testament in one hand and Gospel tracts in the other and a Jesus Saves sign with the cross just over his head, he entered into the presence of his Savior. He died at the age of 48. Her mother volunteered at the mission until she died at the age of 72.

Shirley was mother to three children: Eleanor, Chuck and Phillip.

Shirley and her late husband, Edward Carnell, married in 1982 and moved to Salt Lake City in 1983 to to be directors of the Salt Lake City Rescue Mission. Shirley first managed the thrift store operated by the Rescue Mission. She would take drapery to upholster furniture to make it more salable. She became secretary once that position was available, which was her most natural ability. You could find her, however, doing gardening, painting, and most anything. She began developing a ministry to the homeless women in the mission facility. Finally, in 1987, Rescue Haven was open for women and children. Shirley used her decorating ability, as well as to develop a staff and a spiritual program there.

She brought no degrees and very little experience – just a longing to serve the Lord, wherever and a deep-seeded love for the “down and outer.” She not only felt blessed to be used of the Lord, but also to follow in the steps of her parents.

Shirley along with her husband retired and moved to Lakeland, TN in 2002 to be near family. They were members of First Baptist Church in Lakeland where they faithfully attended until his death and she no longer could attend physically.

Though she suffered with Dementia for the last 10+ years, she never lost her love for the Lord and her longing for Heaven. She brought so much joy with her humor and was always telling others about the Lord until her dying day, along with a favorite hymn on her lips.

Shirley was preceded in death by two husbands, a brother, a son-in-law, and 2 grandsons, but survived by 2 of her children and spouses, 3 grandchildren and spouses and 12 great-grandchildren.

Family will receive friends from 3:00pm to 4:00pm on Sunday, August 23 at Lakeland First Baptist Church 4500 Canada Rd, Lakeland, TN 38002. A celebration of life service will follow at 4:00pm. Please wear happy colors.

In lieu of flowers you can make a donation to:

Rescue Mission of Salt Lake, PO Box 1227, Salt Lake City, UT 84110-9914