Shirley Coburn Thompson, 98, of Fayetteville, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, April 26, 2026, at her residence, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on April 3, 1928, in Boston, Massachusetts, Shirley was the daughter of the late Roy Nelson Coburn and Ethel Ada Morsell Coburn. She lived a long and meaningful life centered on family, learning, and quiet acts of generosity.

Shirley had a deep love for animals, especially dogs and cats, and found great joy in their companionship. While she cherished her entire family, her grandchildren and great-grandchildren held a particularly special place in her heart.

In her early 50s, Shirley pursued her passion for history by attending Shepherd University, where she earned an associate's degree in history, graduating with honors. She was an avid reader who enjoyed analyzing and editing, and she maintained a lifelong appreciation for the written word. In an age of advancing technology, Shirley remained devoted to the personal touch, faithfully sending handwritten cards to family and friends for every occasion.

She enjoyed sports throughout her life, especially cheering on her children and grandchildren. In her later years, she became an enthusiastic fan of the Carolina Hurricanes.

Shirley was active in her faith and church community. She was a past member of First Baptist Church, where she taught Sunday School, and Village Baptist Church, where she remained actively involved. At the time of her passing, she was a member of Hayes Barton Baptist Church in Raleigh.

Known for her frugality, Shirley was equally remembered for her generosity, supporting various charities and always giving to her family. She also enjoyed traveling and created lasting memories visiting England in 1997, the Biltmore Estate, Carolina Beach, and Monticello.

Shirley retired as an office manager from Homeowners Realty after 20 years of dedicated service.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Tori NeSmith; great-granddaughter, Brooklynne NeSmith; and her sister, Norma Eileen Norris.

She is survived by her daughters, Karen Simkin and husband Howard, and Janis Matastasio and husband Donald; grandchildren, Leah Simkin, Lauren Matastasio, and Caitlyn Abear and husband Colin; and numerous great-grandchildren: Emma Simkin, Raegan NeSmith, Brandon Jordan, Keira NeSmith, Abigayle NeSmith, McKenzie Simkin, Jayce NeSmith, Brooklynne NeSmith, Marcelle Abear, Silas Abear, Michael Forbes, Cora Lynn Weiser, and Lily Forbes. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. on Monday, May 4, 2026, at Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home, followed by a service in the chapel at 11:30 a.m. Burial will follow at Lafayette Memorial Park West.

Memorial contributions may be made in Shirley's memory to the Fayetteville Animal Protection Society (FAPS), 3927 Bragg Blvd, Fayetteville, NC 28303.

Shirley will be remembered for her quiet strength, enduring love for her family, and the thoughtful, personal touches she brought to the lives of those around her.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home, 545 Ramsey Street, Fayetteville, NC 28301. Online condolences may be shared at http://www.jerniganwarren.com