She is survived by brothers Gary Wilhelm (Susan), Philip Wilhelm (Betsy) and sister Dorella Henderson (Terry). Son, Cary Chavis (Angela). Daughters, Cathy Delgado (Gerry), Amanda Mingie (Scott), Stacy Chavis (TC Russell). Stepchildren, Jimmie York, Jr., Carl Chavis, Dale Chavis, Lisa Sayas (Joe). Grandchildren, Liam, Jacob, Sierra, Logan, Gracyn, Bryson, Morgan, Alva, Jamie, Macey, Victoria, Jackson and Bryan and more. Great grandchildren Bennett, Marlie and Archer and more.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Jimmie York, her grandson Camerynn, stepdaughter Becky Chavis, and former spouses Alva Chavis and Lonnie Odom.
She was born in Germany to Philip and Mavis Wilhelm on May 15, 1953. Upon her return to the US in October 1953, she resided with her family in Memphis, TN. Not long after the death of her mother in 1957, her family relocated to Columbia, SC (around 1959).
She most recently resided at Jenni Lynn Assisted Living Facility in West Columbia. There, she had an amazing group of friends and considered the faculty there friends as well. She loved to have coffee with Melissa, smoke time with Ms. Betty and hearing Greg play his guitar and sing for the group.
Prior to that, she had also lived briefly with former son in law, Scott Conner and former son in law, Ethan Miller. She was grateful for these stays and the opportunity to spend time with her grandchildren.
There is not enough space here to mention all of the cousins, relations by marriage, relations even after divorce, friends and acquaintances that Shirley considered family. If her death causes you any grief or sorrow, then to her, you were part of her family. If at any time you were a part of the lives of one of her children, you were part of her family. She was willing to accept any and all, regardless of flaws, as long as you were willing to accept her, regardless of her own flaws.
A graveside service will be held at 12:00 noon on Tuesday, February 21, 2023 in Fort Jackson National Cemetery.
Donadagohvi
Till we meet again
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