Shirley Antley Taravella, 84, passed away peacefully on May 31, 2025, in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Born to Lucy and William Antley on December 21st 1940, in Monroe, Louisiana. Shirley was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She loved Jesus, Elvis, and Coca cola.
Shirley was a graduate of Fairpark High School. She spent her career at Bell South and retired after many years of dedicated service. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life; Before dementia she was an active member of her church and taught Sunday School. Her house was the neighborhood hangout for her grandkids and their friends. She shared Jesus and snacks to all who came over. Shirley was instrumental in the salvation of her grandchildren.
Shirley enjoyed the simple joys of life. She enjoyed reading, gardening and watching LSU football. Her home was always open. She loved to sit and visit and had some of the best stories about her teenage and young married years.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Lucy and William Antley; her daughter, Charman; her brother, Junior and sister, Evelyn.
She leaves to cherish her memory, her son, Joe Taravella III (Dana); grandson/son, Jeremy Guerra; grandchildren, Joe Taravella IV (Ashley); Jessica Perry (Maranda); Justin Perry (Sarah); Jodie Chambers (Landon); Marshall Perry; and great-grandchildren, Brooklyn, Elijah, Jaxon, Ace, Bailey, and little Joey; sisters Helen, Beverly, and Joyce, and numerous nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Shirley's life will be held on Thursday June 5, 2025, at Centuries Memorial in Shreveport, Louisiana. Visitation starts at 10:00 am, with the service led by Brother Paul Hayes to follow at Noon. Honoring her as pallbearers are Joe Taravella IV, Marshall Perry, Landon Chambers, Justin Perry, Jeremy Guarra, and Chris Taravella.
Shirley's legacy is one of faith and love. She touched the lives of all that knew her, leaving behind a family and countless funny and endearing stories to cherish her memory forever.
