Shirley Ann Reed Thomas

Shirley Ann Reed Thomas, born on April 5, 1935, in Chicago, IL, passed away on Thursday, November 21, 2024, after a brief illness.

A cherished member of her community and a beloved matriarch, Shirley touched the lives of many through her unwavering dedication to family and loyalty to friends. Shirley had a signature smile, laugh and quick wit. Over the years she enjoyed crafting, Christmas ornaments, cross stitching, crocheting and knitting. Those who were fortunate enough to receive her handcrafted creations will fondly remember the love and care she infused into every stitch.

Shirley’s greatest joy came from her family. She delighted in spending time with her daughters, Bonnie Thompson (Rick) and Vicki Harrison (James); and sons, Ken Thomas (Carol), Gary Thomas (Rita). She was the proud grandmother of 10: Jennifer Thompson, Ryan Thompson (Jamie), Abel Thomas, Michael Coates (Nicole), Mary Thomas, Brian Thomas, Roger Thomas (Dana), David Thomas (Jen), Kevin Thomas (Amber), and Kole Thomas (Hannah). Shirley cherished her relationships with her 17 great-grandchildren: Anna (Jesse), Lori, Easton, Nolan, Livia, Levi, Sawyer, Chase, Kensley, Brooks, Walker, Harper, Logan, Xavier, Lucas, Dallas, Drake and baby Duke due in April, 2025. These roles filled her heart with immeasurable love and happiness.

A resident of Haywood Co., Shirley was the daughter of the late Chester and Alma Belleau Reed. She was also preceded in death by her son, Eugene Thomas, Jr.; and her siblings, Doreen Reed, Elaine Reed Price, and Merwyn “Marty” Reed.

Her legacy continues through her beloved family and friends whose lives she enriched with her love and guidance.

The graveside service will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, November 29, at Lewis Memorial Park, 475 Beaverdam Rd., Asheville, NC 28804. Her grandson, Pastor Kole Thomas, will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Honors and Memorials, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Donations may also be made online at www.stjude.org, or by calling 1-800-822-6344. When making a donation by physical mail or telephone call, please reference the Memorial ID 24208965 (not necessary for online donations).

Groce Funeral Home on Patton Ave. is assisting the family.