Shirley Ann Jones

“She lived with grace, gave with love, and left us a legacy of joy.”

Shirley Ann Jones was born on March 10, 1951, in Lincolnton, Georgia, to the late LB Jones, Sr., and Etta Mae Wright Jones. On August 26, 2025, surrounded by her loving family and friends, she peacefully transitioned at Piedmont-McDuffie Hospital.

At an early age, Shirley accepted Christ and united with Mulberry CME Church, where she remained a faithful member throughout her life. She was educated in the Lincoln County School System and graduated with the Westside High School Class of 1969. With a passion for learning and teaching, she went on to earn her Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education from Paine College in 1976.

A devoted educator, Shirley touched countless young lives through her work with the Taliaferro County, Wilkes County, and Richmond County Boards of Education. She was also a proud and active member of Tau Gamma Delta Sorority, Inc., where she built lifelong bonds of sisterhood and service.

Shirley’s presence was a gift to all who knew her. She was a gifted storyteller, whose words could inspire laughter, reflection, and joy. She loved writing, dancing, and singing, and she never missed an opportunity to travel or spend quality time with her beloved grandchildren, who were the light of her life.

She was preceded in death by her son, Darien Simmons; great-grandson, Genesis Youngblood; her parents; and her siblings, Lillie Bell Sounds, Leon Jones, LB Jones, Jr., and Robert Jones.

Shirley’s beautiful legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of her family: her loving daughter, Keshia Delisa (Gary) Reynolds of Thomson, GA; cherished grandchildren, Ariel (Shaheed) Evans, Billy Youngblood, and Skylar Youngblood, all of Thomson, GA; five and a half adored great-grandchildren, Corbyn, Journey, Nickalous, Londyn, Aris, and “one baking in the oven,” Jasiah; two caring sisters, Mozell Jones of Lincolnton, GA, and Cheryl J. (Lorenzo) Gregario of Harlem, GA; a devoted brother, John (Sherrie) Jones of Savannah, GA; a dedicated friend and partner, James Turner; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, sorority sisters, colleagues, and dear friends.

Her love, laughter, and legacy of service will never be forgotten.