Linda Jeannette Shirley

Ms. Linda Jeanette Shirley of Covington, GA left this world on March 23, 2021 after a short illness with cancer.

Linda was born June 11, 1958 to James (Jim) Robert Shirley and Joyce Eubanks Shirley in Atlanta, GA. She is survived her sister, Susan Shirley Willingham of Decatur, GA, her niece Stephanie Willingham Moffitt (John) of Boulder, CO and her nephew David Russell Willingham of Marietta, GA. She was the proud Great Aunt of Mary Arabelle Moffitt, Joseph Archer Moffitt, Madalyn Elisabeth Willingham, Evie Lauren Willingham and Elena Caroline Willingham.

Linda grew up in the Oak Grove community of Dekalb County. She attended Oak Grove Elementary and Lakeside High School, class of 1976. After high school she went to Georgia Southern University where many lifelong friendships were made. She graduated in 1980 with a degree in Early Childhood Education and later received a Master’s degree from Mercer University in Atlanta and later received her EDS from Liberty University.

Linda loved working as an educator in Newton County, first at Palmer Stone Elementary and most recently at Flint Hill Elementary. When the pandemic drastically altered school attendance last fall, Linda worked diligently teaching both virtual and in-class students.

Such dedicated educators like Linda are few and far between. She touched many children’s lives.

Linda grew up attending Oak Grove United Methodist Church where she was involved in MYF and youth choir. As her illness progressed, Linda chose to rejoin the church of her childhood, Oak Grove. It was the right time to “come home.”

Linda’s companion Gracie was a beloved friend to Linda as a puppy to the ripe old age of 17. Now Gracie and Linda are reunited once again.

Linda will be remembered for her smile, her quiet strength, her patience and unexpected wit.

She loved her family with all her heart and was known as the family photographer.

Linda had the kindest heart of anyone around and those who knew her would agree. We will miss Linda but always know she is with us.