Shirley Ann Saunooke
April 18, 1946 ~ July 7, 2008
Resided in:
Fairview, NC
Shirley Ann Harper Saunooke, 62, of 30 Number Nine Road, Fairview, went to Heaven on Monday, July 7, 2008.
Mrs. Saunooke was born in Buncombe County and was a daughter of the late Redford "Red" and Myrtle Owenby Harper and was also preceded in death by her sister, Helen Harper Fisher. She was retired as a secretary at Blue Ridge Mental Health, a member of Emma's Grove Baptist Church and attended Biltmore Baptist Church.
She loved living in Fairview and was an avid supporter of the Fairview and AC Reynolds sports programs where she especially enjoyed watching her kids and grandkids play. Mrs. Saunooke was inducted into the AC Reynolds Athletic Hall of Fame on May 15, 2004. She was and still is a loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend. We love you Shirley Girley.
Survivors include her husband and best friend of 43 years, Mike Saunooke; her beloved dog of 13 years, Two Socks "Poo"; two daughters, Sonja Ann Saunooke and Tara Alexander and husband, Jason, and a son, Eddie Saunooke, all of Fairview; five grandchildren, Keya, Keyton, Hannah, Zack and Katie; a number of special relatives and special friends, Sharon, Marie, Sue and Kim.
Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Friday at Emma's Grove Baptist Church with the Revs. Ryland Whitehorn and Charles Rogers officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.
Her family will receive friends from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Thursday at Groce Funeral Home on Patton Avenue.
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Mike,Sonya,Tara and Eddie We were so saddened to here of the lose of Shirley. There are no words that anyone can say to you to take the pain away,As we set back and think of all the wonderful memories of Shirley and that beatuiful smile she always carried with her, keep her smiles in your heart will be a great help with your healing. All the many (I mean MANY) years of knowing your family I cant ever remeber a time I seen Shirley and she didnt speak or hug she was such a sweet loving person. May God be with you during this time of healing…If there is anything we can do please , please let us know….We Love you guys !!!
Lynn , Jeanette , Teresa , Deborah
Gary Lunsford & Clara Lunsford
We are so sorry to hear of Shirley’s passing. We want you to know that you will be in our thoughts and prayers during this time. Just know that the Lord will help you through this difficult time.
Love,
Ron, Kay, Crystal, Dennis and Shaina Core
Mike and Family you are in our prayers. Shirley was a great person, and we will truly miss her. May God be with you.
Mike, Tara, Sonya, and Eddie…My heart is breaking for all of you. There are no words that can help ease your pain. You all know that Shirley was one of the most special people God ever created, He just needed her with Him to help cheer on the ball teams in Heaven. We love you guys, and if you need anything please let us know.
With Love,
Kimberly, Doug, Jordan, and Chloe Pendley, and Jerry and Kim Spillars
We were shocked & devastated to hear of Shirley’s death. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Memories of all the time we spent together in youth sports in Fairview years ago comes to mind. It seems like yesterday. Shirley’s enthusiasm, energy, and humor will always be remembered affectionally. Mike, Tara, Sonya, Eddie, we share your loss and grief. Nothing we can say or do will fix this. It just hurts!
Eddie and family,
Im sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time!
Dear Mike and family:
Words cannot express the sadness I feel for you with Shirley’s passing.
My heart breaks for your loss.
Mike: It was very clear to me that in Shirley’s mind her honeymoon with you never ended. In working with her for almost 20 years, there was hardly a day that passed that she didn’t talk about the adventures you and she had and she always had a twinkle in her eye.
Sonya, Tara, and Eddy: It was equally clear that her heart was filled with love for you and she was so proud of all of you and the people you have become.
I will never forget the kindness she showed to me on a daily basis and the kindness she showed Emma when I returned from China.
I often told Shirely that I wanted to be just like her when I grow up!
She was one of my heros.
I know that no words can comfort you.
My wish for you is that you may have some comfort in knowing that she was loved by about everyone she had contact with.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Kathy and Emma Rubendall
Dearest Mike, Sonja, Tara & Eddie, and the little ones who called her ‘Shirley Girley’.. 🙂
I have read this obituary a dozen times and I still can’t believe that my best friend is gone. I just can’t go there in my mind right now. I feel as if I am in a bad dream. Shirley and I just talked on the phone for a long time last Friday evening June 27th. Shirley was just Shirley! Making me laugh as usual. I had no idea it would be the last time I would ever talk to her again in this life time. Her last words to me as we hung up were “I Love Youâ€. We always went from family to politics to country music and then usually back to family before we ended our long conversations. We have laughed together and we have cried together so many times. She was a hoot to work with at Blue Ridge and it was so hard when the system crumbled and we had to part our ways as co-workers. But… she found so much happiness in her retirement and being able to spend more time with her grandkids. (bragging because she no longer had to use an alarm clock or a watch) She loved those grandkids dearly. I already miss her tremendously! She was such a giving and loving person. My heart and prayers go out to all of you. I loved her like a sister…..she can never be replaced in my life. There is definitely a hole in my heart right now.
Blessings to all of you…
Sharon
Tara-
I offer my condolences in the passing of your mother. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers in the coming days and weeks. God’s grace will see you through!
Mike and family, our deepest sympathy to all of you. May God comfort you in this time of sadness.
To Mike and all the family:
Our heartfelt sympathy and love are
with you.
Tara and family,
Our deepest sympathy goes out to you. Should you need anything, please know we will help in any way possible. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.
May God be with you.
Mike, Ed, Sanya, Tara, Jason, and Kids:
Your family is in my thoughts and prayers and will always be. Shirley truely impacted my life. She was such am amazing, genuine person with a huge heart. I really can not remember one time seeing Shirley without a smile, a giant hug, and an I love you.
Ed, I know this is hard for you if there is anything you need please call. I’m hear for ya!
Lots of Love,
Jam
Mike, Sonja, Tara, Eddie and family,
Words just can’t express the sorrow in our hearts over the loss of Shirley. She was an amazing person and we feel extremely blessed not only to have known her but to be able to call her our friend. Of course, the ballfield won’t be the same without her but our hearts will be stirred by her memory every time we set foot on one.
Jared hit his first over-the-fence homerun of this year’s tournament last night and he said it was for Mrs. Shirley. Because she was so great at encouraging and cheering on every single player out there we know that would have made her happy.
Your family will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers as you go through this difficult time. Please let us know if there is anything we can do for you. We love you all.
Mike,Sonja,Tara and Eddie: All of our prayers are with you over the loss of Shirley. We have such fond memories of many hours spent with you guys at the ballfields during the summers. May God keep you in his care and know that others are thinking of you. Love The Parker’s (Don,Rita, and Kelly)
Mike&family,we are so sorry to hear about Shirley she was a great person always had a smile your family is in our thoughts and prayers The Cauble’s Carroll,Lucille,Vickie,Jeff & Darren
Dear Mike and family:
I just found out about Shirley’s passing. I am so sorry for your loss. I worked with her at Blue Ridge Mental Health, a long time ago. She was always there to great you with a smile and a hug. She will be missed!
Dawn Rhymer Hinson
Mike, Sonja, Tara and Eddie, It is with great sadness that I received the news. Shirley was one of those few persons in life that was always smiling. She had the greatest love for Mike, her children, her grandchildren and everyone else she came in contact with. Your family lost a truly great lady that we admired and was a great pleasure to talk with. Fairview will just not be the same without Shirley. It is already hard to drive home down Emma’s Grove Road without getting tears in my eyes thinking of Shirley. May she be at peace with God and we will pray for her and your family.
May the peace of God and the comfort of His Holy Spirit rest upon your hearts.
Dear Mike,Tara,Sonja&Eddie We were so saden to hear about Shirley,she was such a delightful person,that always had a smile. We will miss her,she will be in are hearts forever. Darrell&Kim Coffey (The Kounty Line B.P.)
MIKE, SONJA, TARA, EDDIE
IM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS, OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU ALL. I LOVE YA’LL, YOUR LIKE ANOTHER FAMILY TO US. TRICK OR TREATING WONT BE THE SAME WITHOUT SHIRLEY, I REALLY LOVED SHARING THAT TIME WITH YOU ALL. I WILL MISS HER HUGS AND SMILES, SHE WAS AN AWESOME LADY. IF YOU ALL NEED ANYTHING PLEASE LET ME KNOW. LOVE SAM, WHITNEY, JAYDEN, KAYLA STAFFORD
Dear Mike and family
I worked a number of years with Shirley at Blue Ridge. I remember how much fun she was and always so thoughtful.. I remember even more how much she loved you guys. Know all of you are in my thought and prayers
To family and many friends – My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Shirley was such a kind person and always had a smile for you. My late husband, Grover knew her and she always had a kind word for him at Blue Ridge. Blessings and peace, Betty Nelon Rhodes
Mike, Sonja, Tara, and Eddie,
I was so shocked and saddened to hear of Shirley’s passing. Every time I saw her, she had that sweet smile on her face and a hug for me. I will always remember her at all the games, cheering for everyone. Fairview and ACR will never be the same. Your family is in our prayers and may God be very near.
Fondly,
Joel, Laura (Bassett), Drew, and Cameron Parker
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Shirley was a special person who had a smile for everyone.
Mike,Sonja,Tara, Just wanted to let you all know how deeply sorry I am to hear of your moms death. What a shock!! I hope all of you are doing ok, considering the loss. Mike, I will be praying for you guys and will see you tomorrow night. God Bless, and if you need anything, call me at 674-8986. Once again, I am so sorry. Gary McDonald
shirley, you always smiled and hugged me everytime you we saw each other.you are a special lady.the lord will love having you closer to him. he is the lucky one now. so many people will miss you but we know you are in a better place and god will take care of you. we will miss you. mike spillars
Mike,Sonja,Tara,Eddie
Im saddened by the loss of such a beatiful lady who always had a smile and a kind word for me and my family. We will miss her and that horn she always tooted when she saw us outside. Every one will miss her at the ballfield and all the encouragement she gave to those kids. My girls think the world of Shirley Girly and Pappaw Mike. We will miss her trick or treating we have some great memories with you guys. Our thoughts and prayers are with you guys.
We Love You
Lynn,Richard,Alyssa,Brittany and Amber
Mike,Sonja,Tara and Eddie
We are very sorry to hear about Shirley.Please feel free to call if there is anything we can do for any of you.We love you all very much and will be praying for you.
Mark & Tammy Ray
Mike and family
I was so sorry to hear of the passing of shirly. She will be missed.I pray that Gods love comferts you and the familly in this trying time.All of you are in our prayers
Mike
Our prayers are with you and your family in this time of sorrow. If you need anything give me a call
Don
Mike,Tara,Sonja,Eddie; So sorry about shirley.I will always remember when i was at the ballfields Shirley would take me under her wing like another daughter.She was always smiling and hugging me when i saw her. She is so blessed to be with jesus. Mike i’m so sorry for the lose of your best friend and wife.I will keep you in our prayers and thoughts. Tara,Sonja,Eddie I love you all. If need anything please call. So Sorry Love, Christina
Dear Saunooke’s
It is hard for me to believe that Shirley is no longer with us. I have known her since she was a senior at Reynolds, which was my first year teaching there. She was a great athlete, as well as student.
Then I was fortunate to be able to know her three wonderful children when they attended Reynolds. I would say that the Saunooke’s were probably one of the best ‘Booster’ families we had at Reynolds, they never missed a game and always yelling and cheering for the teams.
Shirley was one beautiful person, inside and out and I know she will leave a void in the Fairview community.
Just want you to know how very much you’re being thought about with sympathy, caring, warm friendship and love.I know that the pain you feel is real and while I can’t take away your pain, I am praying you will be comforted.
‘Be strong and of good courage, fear not nor be afraid..For the Lord thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.’ Deut. 31:6
Love in Christ,
Ethel Jacobson
‘Jake’
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We’re so sorry for your loss.
Mike and Family,
It took me a little time to actually grasp that she’s actually gone and no longer with us, But she was truely a beautiful women,She touched so many lifes with her humor and just being shirley. She would talk to you and you could guarantee when she got done talking to you that you would be either smiling or laughing. We will all miss her.If you need anything feel free to let us know. Betty, Roger,Tara and Justus Whitaker.
Your family will be remembered in our prayers during your time of loss. May the Lord bless you and your family.
To Shirley’s family; I was a co-worker of Shirley’s at Blue Ridge Center, for 15 years. She will be remembered as one of the sweetest, most caring and genuine people I have ever known. She was a big source of support for me when my daughter died 10 years ago, always asking me how I was doing, and for several years, I got a card from her to let me know she was thinking of me. She made things in our office fun, always laughing and ‘cutting up’. Everyone loved her and she was so warm and caring to our clients. It was clear to me that she loved her family above all else. I remember hearing all about their accomplishments, she was so proud. My heart breaks for all of you; please try to take some comfort in the precious memories. She will be in a special place in my heart. Vivian Williams
Mike, Sonya, Tara, and Eddie…My most sincere condolences on your loss of such a wonderful Wife and Mother. I know she will be missed by the community and family, and certainly welcomed into the heavenly community she now joins. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and certainly God will help you all through this period of loss.
Mike, Sonja, Tara, and Ed
Words can’t even express the loss that we all feel. We have all had so much fun together, and Shirley is the one that has always been our rock and our planner for all of our holiday get togethers and crazy excursions.We will all miss her big hugs when you see her and always her I love you’s when she says goodbye. I know that we will miss her,but can you imagine how sweet it was for her and Helen. We love you all and we will continue on with the holidays and get togethers because Shirley wouldn’t want it any other way.
We love you,
David, Kim, and JD
Mike, Sonja, Tara, and Eddie,
Just wanted to let you all know you are in our thoughts and prayers. What a shock to hear that Shirley had passed, she was so loving, caring and full of life. Every time I ever saw her she had the beautiful smile and would always ask about my family and especially would ask about my mom, and she would always end the conversation with ‘It’s good to see you, and be sure to tell your mom and your family I said Hi’. I know you all and everybody that knew her are going to miss her tremdously, she was a great person.
With our deepest sympathy,
Joe, Diane, Kyle, and Kaylee Tate
Mike, Sandra and I are so sorry for your loss. Please accept our deepest condolances. We are praying for you and your family. Tom.
Mike, Sonya, Tara and Eddie,
I can’t believe she’s gone. To say that Shirley was special is such an understatement. Shirley was so much more than a cousin. She was part of my childhood. As much as Aunt Myrtle, her Mama, adored me, I know how much of a pain I must have been for her and Helen. I was the little one that followed them around and woke them up way too early and thought they were just too cool for words.
Shirley definitely took after her Daddy. He never met a stranger and, Shirley – just like him, had a special intuition about people. Shirley had a light about her that drew people to her. She will be missed, but always remembered and always close to my heart.
Having buried my father at the same age, I know how hard it is to lose someone before their time. Please take care of each other and know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Pam
I was very saddened to hear about Shirley. While we haven’t been in touch in many years, I never forgot the Reynolds Rockettes and our time together as team mates. It was a priviledge to run out on that court with her as our captain. She had heart, character and an amazing personality. I know she will be greatly missed by her family and friends.
Mike, Tara, Eddie, Sonya,
We are truly sorry for your loss. Shirley always had a smile and seemed to brighten a room or an entire ballfield. You guys are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Mike, Sonja, Tara, and Eddie–I am saddened to hear of Shirley’s passing. I am honored to have known such a wonderful woman. My thoughts and prayers are with each of you at this difficult time. May each of you find strength in the Lord and live each day celebrating her life.
Mike and Sonja-I miss seeing each of you everyday. You both are such wonderful and friendly people. God Bless you in this difficult time.
Erin and Kendall Merrill, and Dee Blankenship
We just wanted to let you know that our thoughts and prayers are with each and every one of you. You are very special friends to us. Shirley was and is and extroadinary lady. She has and will continue to touch so many lives. She made a difference. My Mamaw and Papaw Wolfe thought the world of her. Her and Mamaw are probably sharing a laugh in Heaven as we speak! We love you and will continue to pray for you.
To all the family we love you. Bruce, Jan ,Brian, Josh and Laura.
Mike and Tara (Sonja and Eddie),
I’m sorry to hear of the passing of your wife and mother. I remember many softball games during my preteen years when Tara and I played against each other. If we won, your mother would always offer me a congratulatory compliment. If we lost, she’d offer a word or two of sympathy to me, along with a hug. I don’t remember many parents who made an impact on me during those games, but your mom and dad (who was always offered words of encouragement to me, even though we were ‘rivals’) helped me to realize the importance of good sportsmanship and encouragement. I’m so sorry for your loss…may God bless you all.
Brooke (Good) Wines
Mike and family, We are very sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Jimmy and Lisa Core
Mike, Tara, Sonya, Eddie,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. You could always count on Shirley to greet you with a hug and a smile and we will miss her. May God comfort you during these times.
Mike and Family
I am sorry for your loss. Shirley always smile. Prayers are with you all .
Mike I was so sorry to read about Shirley. She was indeed a special person.She will always be remembered. Please let Tara, Sonja and Eddie know that Teresa and I are praying for them. I know they are strong and will get through this. It was an honor for me to know Shirley and you. It was a special honor to have the opportunity to work with Tara and Sonja. I know she was very proud of her children and she will be remembered for generations through them.God bless you and your family. Roger and Teresa Trammel
Mike and family,
I, like everyone else, am shocked and saddened by Shirley’s passing. No words at this time can ease your pain, but just know that she meant a great deal to me. She truly was one of those people that always made you feel good. She was a truly remarkable human being. I will miss her teribly.
Our thoughts are with all of you at this time. Shirley will be missed by many; her kindness & smile will be remembered. Always, Kathy Hayes, Sam & Rachel Lee
Mike, Sonja, Tara, and Eddie,
Just wanted to let you all know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. I will never forget what a sweet and caring woman Shirley was. I am so thankful to have met her, and was able to spend Thanksgiving and Easter with her. She always greeted me with a hug and a smile and told me it was so good to see me again. She was such a good cook, and made delicious Cheesecake! I could tell from just the few times I saw her, that she cared so much about her family & friends, and I know you all meant the world to her. I know that she is Heaven smiling down on each & everyone of you. May the Lord bless you and your family.
Mike, Sonja, Tara, and Eddie
Just wanted to tell you how sorry I was to hear of Shirley’s passing. She was always smiling and just a joy to know. I will be praying that God will give all of you peace in this time of sorrow.
Mike and family,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. You are in our thoughts and our prayers. Shirley was a fine lady and will be sorely missed by all who knew her. with love and respect.
Todd and Jen Israel
We’re so sorry to hear of your wife’s passing.
Lyndon and Norma Clayton
Our prayers our with you.
Charlie and Carolyn Owenby.
Dear Mike, Tara, Jason, Sonya and Eddie,
We are so sorry to hear of Shirley’s passing. She was and will always be such a beautiful and vibrant person. Neither Michael nor myself will be able to attend the service tomorrow, but please know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers. If there is anything you need, please do not hesitate to call us.
Michael Sanders & Amy Dayton
Mike and Family,
Please accept my condolences for your loss, I was lucky to have worked with Shirley at Blue Ridge Center and privledged to have known such a wonderful person. Please know that I am thinking of you all in your time of grief.
Sharon Stanley
Shirley’s family-
It is very sad to hear about Shirley’s passing- and yet it’s a joy to know that Shirley is in a place that overflows with joy. I worked with Shirley for a short period of time at Blue Ridge, and I can easily say that she IS one of the NICEST and MOST CARING FRIENDS I have known. My thoughts and prayers are with your family- I know how it feels.
Mike and family,
We were shocked to learn of Ms. Shirley’s passing. She has been a blessing to many, many people. I never saw her that she was not wearing a beautiful smile and offering a kind word or encouragement. Though a fierce competitor, she was a gentle spirit. She was very proud of her family. Our community (and this world) has lost a shining star. May God grant you peace during this difficult time.
Mike and Family –
I got an e-mail today letting me know of Shirley’s passing. As I am on vacation with my family, I can’t imagine the loss that you, Sonja, Tara and Eddie are feeling right now. You are in our thoughts and prayers in this time of grief.
The Bob and Irene Gosnell Family
Just open your hearts and minds to God’s tender love and mercy, and he will carry you all through this time of sorrow. Much love to all of you.
Tommy and Linda Haworth
[Allie Gators Nana and Paw
Mike,Sonja,Tara,Eddie and Family, So sorry about Shirleys death. She was truly a special person and shared her love of life wherever she went. We grew up together and have lots of happy memories. Our prayers are with you all. Please call if there is anything we can do for any of you. Love Gene and Janie Lewis
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. It will not be the same not seeing her at all the games. Your family is in our thoughts & prayers.
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. It will not be the same not seeing her at all the games. Your family is in our thoughts & prayers.
The Austin Family
Mike, Sonja, Tara, Eddie and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Shirley was a very special lady.
Mike and Sonja, I enjoyed our talk last night at the ballfield and will always treasure the memories of all the times our families were together at the ballfields.
May God be with you all at this time and remember that she is and always will be with you in your heart and soul forever and ever.
Love,
Lisa (Pruitt) McKenna
and family.
Godspeed to the family. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Teresa and Mike
Mike and Family,
We are so sorry for you loss, please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. We pray that God will comfort you and give you the strength to face the coming days.
Mike and family,
We are so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers, We pray that God will comfort you and give you the strength to face the coming days.
Mike and Kids,
You are in our thoughts and prayers. Shirley brought joy to so many people with her smile and personality. We will miss her terribly.
Mike, Sonja, Tara, Eddie & family,
Like most everyone else, I was shocked to learn of Shirley’s passing. I couldn’t believe it when my mom told me today, and I am at such a loss for words. We all shared such wonderful times together. All the practices and the trips we took. You were my second family, and Shirley was like a mother to me. I can’t ever recall a time that I saw her that she didn’t greet me with that beautiful smile and give me a great big hug. It is such a tragedy to lose such a wonderful person, and my soul is saddened by the loss. My greatest comfort is that I was lucky enough to know her and to be welcomed into your home like family. You are all in our thoughts and have our deepest condolences.
Mike, Jennifer, and April Guess
Dear Mike, Sanja, Tara, Eddie, and family
We are very shocked and saddened by Shirley’s passing. What a great person she was. Always a smile and kind word whenever we saw her. She never failed to ask about everyone in the family. She was always interested in supporting her children and the community. If they were involved in an athletic event, Shirley and Mike were there. She and the whole family have always been favorites of our family.
Mike and family, please remember that we will pray that God will sustain you through this difficult time. We all mourn with you.
Love in Christ,
Susan and Alice
I was so shocked and heartbroken to hear about Shirley. I’ve known her all my life just about and I feel like I’ve lost a member of my own family. What a sweet lady who loved her family and who was loved by everyone who knew her. To Mike,Sonja, Tara, and Eddie, we love you all and share in your grief. Our love and prayers are with all of you and the family.
We are sorry for your loss-You will be in our thoughts and prayers. If we can do anything for you, do not hesitate to call. Love, T.Mox, Kelly, Kenneth and Abigail Houston
Mike & family:
So sorry to hear about Shirley. We regret we will be unable to attend the services, but please know you are in our thoughts & prayers. Your Florida Cousins
Judy, Wes, Martha, Robert and families.
We were very shocked and saddened to hear of your loss. By reading all the entries in the guest book you can tell that Shirley was a remarkable person, she had touched so many different lives. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Saunooke Family,
My heart goes out to you in your time of sorrow. May God’s grace strengthen you all.
Mike&family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Shirley was such a wonderful person.My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mike and Family
My heart goes out to you all.
I’ve known Shirly since childhood
Shirley has a special place in my heart. My thought and prayers goesout to the Family
I am so sorry . I remember Shirley from th softball fields,where my daughter Tonya Hammond played ball with her girls. I also appreciate her taking care of Tonya when they would travel and I could not go.
I am so truly saddened by the loss of Shirley. It has been amazing reading what wonderful things that everyone has shared about her. It has only reinforced what I have believed since I was little. I spent almost more time in the Saunooke household than my own, between there and the ballfield, and Shirley was the best at it all. I can’t count how many times me and Sonja stood on the blacktop at Fairview Elem. catching fly balls out of the lights at 11:00 at night with Mike pitching to Shirley on the Babe Ruth field. She was a wonderful and caring, smiling person who has forever touched my life and I am truly sorry for this loss. Mike, Sonja, Tara, and Eddie my thoughts are with you and like my family expressed earlier it does just hurt.
Mike,Sonja,Tara,Eddie, I was so sad to hear of your loss. You guys have always treated me like family. I will never forget birthday parties for the kids or ballgames. Shirley Girley always had a smile on her face and a hug to share. If you guys need anything all you have to do is call. I love each of you and I am praying for you in your time of need. Just know that Shirley is in a better place than all of us and we will see her again one day.
I worked with Shirley in the lab at Mission Hospital in the mid-60’s. We became very good friends. She was one of my bridesmaids in my first wedding. I loved her laugh, and her caring attitude. My thoughts and prayers are with her family. I will always honor her memory.
Dorothy Candler-Fisher
Eddie, Sorry to hear about your mom. Big Jon and I tried to get to the Family night, but couldn’t find parking, and then it began to rain. Your in my prayers! Holler if ya need anything…
Tara,
My heart is heavy for you. I cried when I got the news about your mom. You are such a precious young lady. Your load is heavy right now. I am glad I had a chance to meet you the day ‘our husbands’ had open heart surgery. Tommy & Jason had Heart Path orientation together this week and we talked with him briefly.
Please know that the Boone family sends their love to you and we will all be praying for you and your family.
Love from all the Boone family,
Sandra & Tommy
Bryan & Lisa
Jeremy & Tamara
Saunooke Family
We mourn with you over the loss of
Shirley.
Our prayers are with your family.
Bill Gould
Paul McKinnon
Mike, Tara and family,
We are sorry for all your family is going thru now. I know your mother would want you all to be strong. She was a wonderful lady and we enjoyed talking with her many times at ACR. God put her here for us all!
Your family is in our thoughts and prayers during this diffcult time. We hope that you can find peace and comfort through God, family, and friends. We are terribly sorry for your loss.
Fred and Sandy Sharpe, Tonya (Sharpe) Greene, Amy (Sharpe) Clifford, and Andy Sharpe
Mike, Tara, Sonja, Eddie, & Kids. I am so sorry for the sudden loss of the most amazing woman. I will treasure all the memories I have of her. I pray that God gives you all the strength you need to get through this sorrowful time. I love everyone of you.
Sonja and Family,
We are deeply sorry for your loss. You mother was a precious lady. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. I know that the Lord will bring you all through this most difficult time. I pray you have comfort and peace during this time. Love and Prayers.
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I remember Shirley from my childhood and have never met anybody like her. Twenty years had passed and I saw her at a basketball game and she acted as if I had just seen her last week. You just don’t meet someone like her everyday. I feel very blessed to have known her and all of the family. I know she will be missed. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.
Eddie;
We are so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Blessings
Georgia,Teddy, Travers, T.J., Candace Crump
Your family was a blessing last night as we visited. It was very clear that you have that ‘blessed hope’.
Sonja, Dale wanted you to know he regrets he could not visit but he had to be work.
Best wishes to you all.
I Thess. 4:13, 14
Tara, My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Mike, Sonja, Tara, Eddie and family,
We were so shocked and saddened to hear of Shirley’s passing. You guys are among the first people I met when my family moved here from CA and having had the Blue Ridge All Stars in my life was such a blessing. You guys made a really difficult time so much easier. Shirley was the ultimate team mom and cheerleader and I will always have the fondest memories of her. We are so sorry that we will not be able to make it to the funeral today as we had planned. We pray that you can find comfort in knowing that you will all see her again one day. God bless you all.
Mark, Kerry, Natalie, Delaney and Cameron Moore
Mike and Family,
We are all so saddened by the loss of one of the finest people we have known. Shirley was always a bright spot for those of us who knew her through her years of dedicated work at the Blue Ridge Center. She lit up the room with her smile and wry sense of humor, and was always available to provide a listening ear. We will always have fond memories of our time with her and know that the world was a better place because of her presence.
Ed and Cathy Peterson
Mike, Tara and Jason. I wanted to let you know that all of you have been in our thoughts and prayers. We love and appreciate you all so much. I know you will miss Shirley greatly. We pray that the Lord will bless and encourage your hearts each day, meeting you at your point of need. If I can be of help to you, please let me know. God bless you…
mike i am sorry about your wife she was a wonderful lady one of the nicest people you could ever meet and be around every time i seen you and her there was always a smile you have one of the best families i know of and i am glad i got to know her she is in a better place having a wonderful time and feeling no pain she is in the presence of god and someday will all see her again just like my dad hope to talk to you soon stevebailey and that was a wonderful service and that is a beautiful church godbless and take care tell youre daughters i said helloand my email is messed up sorry
Mike and Family, we were shocked and sadden to hear about Shirley. Both of you have always been our friends and we cherish the wonderful memories of her and the good times we shared over the years. We are sorry we could not attend the services but wanted to let you know our hearts and prayers go out to you and your family. Will see you soon. God Bless each of you during these difficult times.
Thomas and Terri
Saunooke Family,
My heart goes out to each and every one of you. Your family is our family. It will be so hard to move on without this ‘AWESOME’ lady in our lives.
Shirley was the best second mom anyone could have ever had. She would never leave me or get off the phone with me without telling me that she loved me. I am so proud to say that I knew her and was able to share all of these years with her and her family.
I never had the chance to thank her being so good to my mom and my grandmother. She never passed up the chance to send either of them a card in the mail. Mom would always talk about how she had gotten another card in the mail from Shirley. It was these small and simple things she did that made my mom so happy.
Shirley took care of everyone and never asked for anything in return.
Mike,Sonja,Tara,Eddie and the rest of the gang…
Our family will always be there for you and I hope that we can always stay in touch. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers.
I love you all very much,
Tracey
Dear Mike and Family,
May the peace of God that passes all understanding be with you at this sad time. Like everyone else it was a shock when I heard of Shirley’s passing. She was someone that brought sunshine to every one who met her. And Shirley will forever be alive in our hearts and memories.
I know that my neice Jennifer her husband Charles ‘Scobby’ and their girls will miss Shirley so very much. Jennifer talked so much about the Saunooke family and how fond she is of each of you.
I was fortunate enough to have known Shirley in High School. We had so much fun on those buses as we traveled to play basketball at another school. We would all be so upbeat on the way there. But there were a few sad times riding back if we lost the game. But we look back with fond memories of those days at RHS.
Family, the days ahead of you will be hard, but trust in God and He will see you through. We don’t always understand why God takes such a good person home so soon, but He is an ever loving God. Shirley walked from this world, straight into the arms of our Lord who needed her with Him.
Family, please know that prayers are being said for you, that our love is with each of you.
Heaven gained an angel, we lost a very dear friend. Godspeed, Shirley!
With deepest sympathy,
Carolyn Taylor Moore
Mike, Sonya, Tara, Eddie and family,
I want to express my sincere sympathy to you. I was very saddened to hear about Shirley’s passing and I am sorry that I could have been there for the services.
I have been thinking that I have known Shirley my entire life and she has always been the same fun & loving lady. I have so many fond memories that it hurts my heart to know that we don’t get to enjoy her any longer. Heaven is rejoicing with her homecoming even though we are going to miss her a ton.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mike i love you!!
and Tara and Sonja and Eddie.
yall are a strong family and its going to take time but you’ll be okai.
i love you shirley
Dear Keyton,
I am sorry to hear about your Grandma passing away. I know she is now a angel in heaven.
Your friend,
Alex
Mike, I was sorry to hear of Shirley’s death. I used to have a lot of fun with her at ballgames. She was a hoot to kid around with. She was so young to leave this world. My sincere sympathy to you and your family.
Charles
Mike and Family,
We are so very sorry for your loss. I will never forget all the ball games we were at and what a neat lady Shirley is. She always had a smile and was just fun to be around. She will be missed greatly. All of you are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
Raina, Chad and Brett Allegra
Mike & Family
We offer you our deepest sympathy at this sad time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
My prayers and thoughts are with you. Shirley was a dear friend and I appreciated everything she did for me at school and she was always there for me. You have my deepest sympathy. Love, Fannie Bunn
Shirly will be greatly missed. She was an awesome sports mother and friend to me, I will miss most of all that beautiful smile she always had no matter what.
Dear Family,
Shirly will be greatly missed. She was an awesome second mother and friend to me when i played basketball at fairview as a child. I think I will miss most of all that beautiful smile she always had no matter what. May God give you peace in midst of this homegoing.
Tara and family, I am so sorry for the loss of your mother. As you know , we recently lost our dad. He thought the world of you Tara. Those we laughed with , learned from, leaned on, and loved the most leave us the best memories. May God Bless You and Your family with special memories to hang on to. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows, but take heart, because I have overcome the world JOHN 16:33 Tara we love you and your family and if there is anything we can do, please let us know. You will be in our prayers Honoring the memory of a very special person love the McMinn Family
Mike & Children,
We have been out of town and just heard about the passing of Shirley. Even though we have not been in touch, in a while, we will never forget her or any of you. She was and is a special lady.
God is rejoycing having her on the otherside with him, and we will see our again. If we can help in any way please let us know. You are in our prayers.
Love,Joe, Pat, Scott, Jackie & Kids
Dear Mike & Family,
We were saddened to hear of Shirley’s passing. She was a special person and always had a smile. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Jamie & Sheila (Buckner) Reeves
We were sorry to hear about Shirley. We have been on vacation but wanted you to know you are in our prayers.
Kyle, Angie, Mackenzie, and Morgan Barrett
Mike, Tara, and family–you are all in our hearts and prayers during these days of unimaginable loss. Shirley is such a precious memory to so many of us.
Romans 8:38
For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,
[39] Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
We were sorry to hear about Shirley. We have been on vacation but wanted you to know you are in our prayers.
Kyle, Angie, Mackenzie, and Morgan Barrett
I know that it’s a very difficult time for ya’ll! I pray that God would give you comfort and that the Holy Spirit will carry you through this trying time. We deeply express our condolenses.
Eddie, holler if ya need anything.
Mike and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of sorrow. Shirley was a thoughtful, caring person whose smile and laughter will be greatly missed. We love each of you and trust God will wrap his loving arms around you during this time.
Mike, Sonja, Tara, & Eddie,
This is such a difficult time for you all, but as you know God will give you the strength that you need. Shirley’s precious smile will be with us forever. We will miss her at the ball field, but it is comforting to know that she will be watching from above. She has left behind such a beautiful family and I am sure that she knows that all of us will take good care of you while she is gone.
Mike, Tara, Sonya and Eddie I am so sorry to hear of Shirley’s passing. I will never forget her smile and laughter. She always treated me as one of her own and she never passed up a chance for a kind word. You all have lost a treasure but God has gained one terrific ANGEL!
Mike, Sonja,Tara & Eddie,
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Shirley. So many memories of playing basketball and softball for the ‘Indians’ and Fairview came to mind. Shirley always welcomed me into your home and I felt like one of the family.
All of you are in my thoughts and prayers and know just how dear you guys are to me and my family. May God Bless you all.
‘Reggie’
Mike & Family,
I’m still in shock over hearing about Shirley. I can’t remember one time when she didn’t meet me with a smile and a hug. She was one of the most genuine & sincere people I’ve ever known. It didn’t matter whether you saw her from one week to another, or if it had been a year since you spoke to her last – she was always the same sweet person. My thoughts and prayers are with you all and the entire family. I’m here if you need anything at all. Love always – Melanie
Mike & Family,
Our family sends our deepest regrets for your loss. Our hearts are sad. I believe God puts people in your life for a reason. You and Shirley were such a part of ours. You were always there with your caring, with your understanding, and with your wisdom. You taught use the ‘right way’. Thank you for taking a bunch of ‘Biltmore Brats’ under your wing.Your kindness will NEVER be forgotten. You will be in our thoughts & Prayers.
Love to you all,
Margaret, Bobby, Billy, Len & Linda.
Mike,Sonya,Tara and Eddie,
We are so sorry to hear of Shirley passing. May God’s peace and love be with you during this difficult time. Shirley was always such a sweet and loving person. Everytime we seen her she was always the same. We will miss her kindness and loving smile ,but believe we will see her again one day in heaven.
With love and prayers, Leroy and Beth
Our Deepest Sympathy. With Love from my entire family. May God be with all of you. Andrew, Tammy & Jacob Morgan
Mike, Sonja, Tara, Eddie. Our thoughts and Prayers are with you and yours. Our hearts broke when we heard the news of Shirley’s passing. We know that we will see her again soon. May God bless you and help you through this trying time. With all of our love Andrew, Tammy & Jacob Morgan
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I was shocked to hear the news today and I’m sorry I didn’t know about the funeral services. I will keep you all in my prayers and pray that God will give you strength, to get you through this hard time. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help.
Love, Cindy Moore Wheeler and Jacob
Mike & Family,
Please know that mine, Joyce’s and our daughter, Tara’s thoughts and prayers are with you. We hope that the good memories will sustain you during this time and always. Shirley was a fantastic basketball player and I shall always be glad that we both attended our 40th Class Reunion from AC Reynolds in 2004. She, Peggy Hyatt House, Hilda House Robinson, Bobby Gorman, Randall Gasperson and Larry Wilbanks were the life of the celebration, as were Ethel (Jake) Jacobson, Wade Hampton, Modena Penland Brown and good ole Clark Pennell. My memories of 1963-64 at ACR were filled with Shirley’s mischevious ways and her ability to make people laugh. If my memory serves me…her Dad was a painter (as was Joyce’s dad, Thea Blalock) and was just as funny, as tall and as full of life as Shirley was. Our daughter, Tara, went to ACR with your Tara. She worked at Blue Ridge Mental Health for years before it was absorbed by Western Highlands. We are also connected through the Cherokee Nation–my Hughes cousins married into the Wildcat, Bigmeat and Lossiah Families. Another connection was my working in the Emergency Room and Admitting Office at MMH for more years than I want to remember. Joyce has been there in the Laboratory/Pathology Dept. for 43 years next month.
Hopefully my mentioning these things and our good memories of Shirley will provide you all with strength and a smile or two to know how much she touched other people’s hearts and lives.
Even though I now live in Georgia, I still have an Asheville cell number–feel free to get in touch anytime. 828-301-0812
Mike, Tonya, Tara and Eddie – I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I never ran into Shirley anywhere when she didn’t greet me with a smile and a friendly hello. We will miss her and want you to know that your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Larry, Kim (Kirstein), Mekenzie and Megan Brow
Mike & Family, So sad to hear of the passing of Shirley. I grew up with Shirley, my Grandmother(Esther Earwood) use to do all the sewing for Shirley’s mom,made all their clothes.Shirley’s dad use to ump the teams at Fairview.My son (Robbie Treadway) played then. We were always at the ball field.Fairview has lost a very special person, and my thoughts and prayers are with you all.May God bless you, and sustain you during these times.
Sonja and Family,
I just wanted to offer my condolences and let you know that my thoughts are with you.
Such a shock to hear of your Mother’s sudden passing. She always had a smile to share and that’s what I see when I think of her. Thoughts and prayers are with you.
Debbie
Mike and Family I am so sorry for your loss. I was blessed to worked with Shirley many years at Blue Ridge Center. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
I’m praying for you and your family.
Tara and Family
Just wanted you guys to know that our thoughts and prayers are with you as you go through this difficult time. It was such a shock to us when we heard the news. I know she will be greatly missed by many, she was always full of life and always always had a smile on her face. If there is anything we can do just let us know
The Dotson’s Larry, Hope, Red and Gator.
Sonya and family,
I am terribly sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
‘Come near to God and He will come near to you.’ James 4:8
Tara, You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. We pray God give you comfort, peace and strength.
Mike and Family,
We were shocked to hear of Shirley’s passing. Our most sincere condolences to all of you. No one who ever met Shirley will ever forget her. May the Lord give you peace and strength. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mike, Sonja, Tara, Eddie. Our thoughts and Prayers are with you at this time. Our hearts broke when we heard the news of Shirley’s passing.May God bless you and help you through this trying time. With all of our love Maria and L’Shawn
Tara, and Family,
I was so shocked to here about Shirley. I always remember seeing her at the ball fields and she always had a smile on her face. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Brenda & David
Mike, Tara, Sonya, Eddie
We are praying for God’s grace for all of you at this sad time. Such a shock. Shirley will be missed by all those that knew her and even those who were just casual acquaintance’s. She was always smiling and was genuinely interested in everyone. How they were doing and always asking about family members. We’ll never forget the ball games and all Shirleys cheering on of the teams. She will be missed. Prayers and love, Pat & George Williams
How sad I am to learn Shirley is no longer with us. I have such fond memories of teaching her the ropes of the office and then working with her for the next few years at Blue Ridge Center. She was such a fun and fine person.
One year has passed but you are still in our hearts everyday. We miss you!
I went to school with Tara, and just wanted to say how sorry I am for you and your loss. I can tell you with time and faith the grief will get easier to deal with. Again, I am so sorry for this tragic loss.
I miss you mom!
Just thinking about you today, especially since it is your birthday… Love you Shirley.. always will! Happy Birthday..
Mothers day was yesterday, May 12, 2013. It just never gets any easier. You would be so proud of my kids and the people they have grown into. I love you more mom, and miss you each and every day.
Shirley girl… I think about you everyday. We buried Betty today and thought about you and how much fun you always were… just like Betty.. you were always the life of the party… miss you more each day.. so many times I have wished I could just pick up the phone and call you… 🙁
I miss u mom every day….I love u more…it just never gets easier….keyton got accepted to UT…keya is,a junior at Limestone…and z is a 6th grader…we love u maw….Shirley Girly
Dear Mike and Family: It is very hard to believe that Shirley has been gone 10 years. She was at my Mom’s funeral (Blaine Huntley, teacher at Fairview for many years) in March, 2008 and she looked like the picture of health. Shirley dedicated her life to her family and the community. She was always giving and rarely taking. That is her legacy. I miss you Shirley. Gerry Huntley, Class of 1965 (Reynolds)