Shirley Owens Simmons, 87 of Fayetteville, North Carolina journeyed to be with the Lord on Wednesday, May 27, 2026. Left behind was a legacy woven in faith, fierce love, and unforgettable memories. Shirley was born on May 30, 1938, In Mullins, South Carolina to John and Betty Owens.

Shirley was a woman whose life was grounded in God and a devotion to her family. Her faith was not just something she believed in, it was something she lived. It guided her heart, carried her through hardship, and shaped the kindness so many knew and loved.

To know Shirley was to know warmth, laughter, and unwavering love. She loved deeply and cared fiercely for those she called her own. Her gentle heart was matched by a spirited soul and a sense of humor that could brighten even difficult days. She had a way of making people feel safe, welcome, and cherished simply by being herself.

But Shirley was also a fighter. She carried a strength that could not easily be shaken and met life with determination and resilience. She was a pistol in the very best sense—full of spirit, wit, and fire. She faced life on her own terms, with courage and conviction, and left an impression that will not soon fade.

She found her greatest joy in her family, whose lives were forever shaped by her love, guidance, and steadfast presence. The lessons she taught, the comfort she offered, and the love she gave so freely will continue to live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her.

Shirley’s greatest treasures were found in the family she loved so fiercely. She is preceded in death by her beloved sons, Don, Ricky and Kevin. She is survived by her daughter, Pam Harris of Fayetteville, and her beloved grandchildren Tangela, Lorraine, Junior, Ryan, Michael, Karen, Danielle and Vanessa whom she loved without measure, along with 21 great grandchildren as well as great granddogs all of whom brought her laughter, comfort and joy.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, May 31, 2026, from 1-2 p.m. at Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. in the funeral home chapel followed by burial at Lafayette Memorial Park West.

Though our hearts grieve her absence, we find comfort in knowing that the faith she held so dearly has now become sight, and that she has heard the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Her earthly voice may be quiet now, but the love she planted, the faith she carried, and the strength she embodied will echo through generations to come.

Online condolences may be made at www.jerniganwarren.com

Funeral arrangements by Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home, 545 Ramsey St. Fayetteville, N.C. 28301