Shirley Edwards Clanton

Shirley Edwards Clanton, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 16, 2025, at her home in Bloomingdale, Georgia. Born on October 25, 1934, in Savannah, Georgia, Shirley's life was a testament to love, dedication, and service.

A 1952 graduate of Commercial High School, Shirley devoted 44 years of her professional life as a Secretary at Union Camp Corporation (International Paper) in Savannah, where she retired with grace and respect from her colleagues.

Shirley's profound faith and commitment guided her as a longstanding member of Connexion United Methodist Church and a 20+ year member of the Post 184 Auxiliary of the American Legion. Her nurturing spirit thrived within the Thunderbolt Senior Citizens Association, and she was a devoted listener of gospel music. Shirley's passion for travel led her on many adventures, creating beautiful memories with family and friends.

Shirley dearly loved children, welcoming them with open arms and a warm heart, and she treasured time with her beloved family. She is survived by her loving daughters, Cynthia Clanton Collins (Michael) of Guyton and Angie Clanton Mingledorff (Mike) of Bloomingdale; her adoring grandchildren, Kimberly Collins Morris (Ray) of Pooler, Kristopher Collins (Kasey) of Ludowici, Brittany Hall (Nick) of Clyo, and Megan Barnwell (Travis) of Pembroke; and 15 cherished great-grandchildren. Shirley also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and her very special friend, Betty McManaway of Tennessee, who shared over a decade of friendship.

Shirley is reunited in eternal life with her beloved husband of 61 years, Emmett Simmie Clanton Jr., her parents, Oliver Marvin Edwards and Veta Bell Edwards, as well as her step-father Frank Perkins. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Bessie Corcelius, Lucille Backhaus, and Mildred Bergman, and brothers, Danny Edwards and Charles Edwards.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 20th, 2025, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm at Baker McCullough Funeral Home Garden City Chapel in Garden City, Georgia. Funeral services will follow at 12:00 pm, with burial at Forest Lawn Memory Gardens.

Arrangements are being handled with care by Baker McCullough Funeral Home-Garden City Chapel, located at 2794 US Highway 80 W, Garden City, GA 31408. For further information, please contact 912-964-2862.

Shirley's legacy of love, friendship, and dedication to others will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched.