Shirley Smith
Age - 87
December 6, 2023
In Loving Memory of Shirley Janelle SmithShirley Janelle Smith, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, peacefully passed away on December 5, 2023, at the age of 87. Born on December 6, 1935, in Jasper, Florida, to the loving parents Thomas and Edith Norris, she is now reunited with them in eternal rest. Shirley was also preceded in death by her siblings Horace, Lucille, Louise, Ruth, Mary, and Buddy. She is survived by her sister, Robbie. A blind date marked the beginning of a beautiful journey that lasted for 49 wonderful years of marriage to her late husband, Walter Smith, whom she will now be reunited with in eternity. Shirley was a devoted and caring mother to seven children: Brian Smith (the late Jane), Kimberley Finney (Sherrie), Debi Johnson (the late Daryl), Becky Thompson (Dick), the late Beth Smith, Mark Smith (Sarah), and Tara Stephenson. Her legacy lives on through her sixteen grandchildren: Kristin (James), Kelley (Vinny), Maxx, Aaron, Cari (Adam), Taylor (Jared), Andrew, Lizzy, the late Nicholas, Brittney, Brian, Luke, Marley, the late Michael, Eric, and Samantha. Shirley was also a cherished great-grandmother to eight precious great grandchildren: Vinny, Kiley, Ashlynn, Darcy, Layla, Brayden, Mia, and Liam. Shirley's vibrant spirit was most evident during the holidays, as she loved every celebration, especially Christmas. A devoted homemaker and hostess, she delighted in decorating, cooking, baking, and spending time with her family on these cherished occasions. Shirley created countless lasting memories through her love for family, travel, and camping. Together, they explored the hidden gems and deepest nooks of the Upper Peninsula, stopping all along their journey to admire natural landmarks. For decades, Shirley worked in the Catalog Department at JC Penney, helping to cultivate and develop printed depictions of the seasons' trends. She was also a talented seamstress, sewing countless garments for her dear children. Her creativity and love extended into every aspect of her life. Visitation to celebrate Shirley's life will be held on Thursday, December 7, 2023, from 3:00-8:00 pm at AJ Desmond and Sons Funeral Home, located at 2600 Crooks Road, Troy, MI 48084. The Funeral Service will commence at 7:00 pm. Shirley will be laid to rest at White Chapel Cemetery beside her beloved Walter. Memorial tributes in Shirley's honor may be made out to the Salvation Army, an organization dear to Shirley's heart. Join us in remembering a remarkable woman who touched the lives of all who knew her. May she rest in eternal peace.Show more