Shirley H. Browder

Shirley was a tender heart and a gentle spirit, whose boundless compassion embraced all she knew; may her memory live on in the laughter she sparked, the love she gave, and the kindness she so freely shared

Shirley H. Browder, age 88, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Her life was a beautiful example of kindness, grace, and unwavering devotion to others.

Shirley shared 63 wonderful years of marriage with her beloved husband, Ned Browder, who went to be with the Lord in 2016. Together, they built a life full of love, laughter, and faith — a true partnership rooted in shared purpose and family values.

She was a proud and devoted mother to her daughter, Terri Ervin (Steve), and son, Rob Browder (Nicole). Shirley’s heart overflowed with love for her five precious grandchildren — Nichole, Andrew, Victoria, Noah, and Carson — and she embraced every moment with them. She is also lovingly remembered by her sister, Barbara Seals, her brother, Floyd Hammond (Vicky), and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family who brought her so much joy.

With a heart for children and education, Shirley dedicated more than 40 years to shaping young minds. As an elementary school principal, she led with compassion, strength, and a nurturing spirit. Even after retiring, Shirley continued to volunteer in schools, gently guiding and encouraging students, always believing in their potential.

Beyond the classroom, Shirley gave generously of her time and talents to Rotary International, where she played an instrumental role in developing programs for children. She was especially proud of her work at Turie T. Small Elementary School developing the Children's Rotary Club, which helped teach the values of the Rotary Four-Way Test — truth, fairness, goodwill, and friendship — values that she lived by every day.

Shirley was the kind of woman whose warmth made everyone feel at home. Her gentle words, kind heart, and genuine compassion touched the lives of all who knew her. She was not only a mother and grandmother, but a mentor, a friend, and a quiet source of strength for so many.

Her legacy of love and service lives on in the countless lives she touched — in every child she encouraged, every friend she supported, and every heart she lifted.

Gathering of Family and Friends will be Friday September 19, 2025, from 4-8 pm at Volusia Memorial Funeral Home. Funeral Service will be Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Central Baptist Church in Daytona Beach, Florida, at 10 am with interment to follow at Volusia Memorial Park in Ormond Beach, Florida

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Turie T. Small Elementary School Music Department or Hospice Care of Middletown, Ohio — two causes close to Shirley’s heart.

She was deeply loved and will be forever missed.