Shirley Ann Smith

Shirley Ann Smith peacefully passed away on June 15, 2026, at Carbondale Memorial Hospital, leaving behind a legacy of love and dedication at the age of 88. Born on August 21, 1937, in Herrin, Illinois, to Clint and Marguerite (Cantrell) Long, Shirley’s life was marked by deep compassion and a steadfast spirit.

On October 1, 1955, in St. Charles, Missouri, she married Paul Smith, with whom she shared many cherished years. Shirley devoted much of her life to caring for others, serving as a registered nurse at Memorial Hospital of Carbondale before retiring. Her unwavering kindness touched the lives of many.

She is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Amber Griffith; her foster sons, Glenn and Gary Beasley; her sister, Valetta Drake of Carson City, Nevada; and several beloved grandchildren. Shirley was preceded in death by her husband Paul, her parents, and her children, Jeremy and Georgia Smith.

Shirley was a faithful member of the Jubilee Church in De Soto, Illinois, where her warm spirit enriched the community.

A celebration of Shirley’s life will be held on Friday, June 19, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Van Natta Funeral Home, with visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. Reverend Danny Norman will officiate the service, and burial will follow at Herrin City Cemetery.

We honor Shirley’s memory and the tremendous love she shared throughout her journey, cherishing the impact she had on all who knew her.