Shirley Turner Smith

Shirley Turner Smith transitioned into Eternity on Saturday July 5, 2025. Affectionately called “Tee” and “Mom”, she was born on December 7,1939 in Nelson County, Va, the only child of the late Eva Loving and James S. Turner. She was preceded in death by her grandson Karstan Tracy Smith.

She received her early education in Lynchburg, Va and graduated from Dunbar High School in 1957 and carried with her the title of Miss Dunbar Class of 1957. After graduating from Dunbar High School, she attended Piedmont Nursing School in Burkeville, Va. where she received her professional license as a Registered Nurse.

She began her professional career as a Registered Nurse at Lynchburg General Hospital where she worked in the Diabetic Renal Unit. Staying true to her craft, she helped patients manage, control and heal from their diabetic health challenges. From there, she embarked on another journey and became the head Manager of the First Aid Department for The Lynchburg Archer Creek Foundry. Shirley has devoted over 40 years of service to the medical industry as a registered nurse helping people live healthier lives.

Shirley “Tee” as she is affectionately called, was an active member of the Lynchburg Chapter of Chums and Girlfriends. She has held various positions within both organizations and has worked enthusiastically towards growing and improving the good works of these organizations within the community.

Shirley “Tee” was a devoted wife to her husband, Dawson “Sweetcake” Smith. The two met and fell in love. They were wedded in Holy Matrimony on December 3, 1965, and shared 59 years as life partners. From this union was born one son, Kammal E. Smith.

She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted husband, Dawson L. Smith, loving son, Kammal E. Smith, and a host of relatives and friends who loved her dearly.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Interment will be at New Mount Baptist Church Cemetery, Arrington, VA.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg is assisting the family.