Gary Paul Shirley

Our beloved husband, father, and Poppa left us peacefully for a much better place. His glorious transition saddens us, but is exactly what he would want.

Gary loved his wife of 50 years and family with all his heart. He was very protective of each and every one of them, especially his wife. He was direct with words and regretted his quick response sometimes. Once he chose you as a family member or friend, that was a lifetime commitment on his part.

Gary’s struggle with illness is over. His race is run. He fought a great fight. He was a terrific dad, a provider to his wife, and a true grandpa. He loved working in the yard and talked with everyone that walked by. He mowed yards for neighbors because they didn’t have time and sometimes, he mowed neighbors’ yards without asking first because he said “they don’t know how to mow.” He had a phone ministry of caring that no one will ever match. Rest Gary, you’ve earned this. We will follow behind.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Judy Stickley Shirley; children, Samuel Paul Shirley (Jessica), Daniel Allen Shirley (Carolyn); three precious grandchildren, Nathaniel (Nate), Emiley, and Joshua; aunt, Jackie; and west coast cousins were especially important to him; his in-laws, Benny and Grace Stickley, Michael Stickley (Kimberly), Carl Wood (Sylvia), Glenn Wood (Dale), nieces and nephews, church family, friends that were extended family and lots of neighbors that walked by. Gary is preceded in death by his parents, Elmer L. Shirley and Lucille Shirley.

We love him, but we’re letting him go. His last few weeks on earth presented him with medical struggles. He faced them with constant prayer and his family by his side. He never lost his dry sense of humor or his protectiveness to his wife.

Judy, Sammy, Daniel, their wives, and the three precious grandchildren express sincere “thanks” to everyone who offered prayer and visitation to the family. 

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, September 24, 2024 at New Life Church of Cabot (107 Commercial Street) with a visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Mayflower Cemetery.