Shirley Lucille Boyett

Shirley Lucille Boyett, beacon of warmth, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2024, in Dothan, AL. Born on February 28, 1945, in Andalusia, AL, Shirley's life was a testament to the enduring strength of love, laughter, and family.

Shirley grew up in humble beginnings, which instilled in her the values of hard work and determination. In her early years, she worked at a sewing factory before embarking on a career at Ansell for 23 years as a condom tester. During this time, she attended drafting courses at Wallace State Community College. Her work ethic was unmatched, a quality that earned her the respect and admiration of all who knew her.

In 2013, Shirley faced a life-altering challenge when a spinal stroke left her paralyzed. Yet, even through adversity, she remained stubborn, bossy, unwavering, and determined—qualities that her family fondly remembers as they reflect on her resilience.

Shirley was a woman of many passions. She found joy in the simplicity of fishing, a hobby that allowed her quiet moments of reflection. Her hands, skilled and precise, raised cockatiels, bringing the beauty of life into her home. In the kitchen, Shirley was renowned for her red beans and rice and a 14-layer chocolate cake that became the centerpiece of many family gatherings. Her love for animals was vast, although she maintained a humorous exception for cats.

Known affectionately as "granny" and "mommer," Shirley's sense of humor brought light into every room. Her laughter was infectious, and her presence was a comfort to all. She held a special place in her heart for her grandchildren, cherishing every moment spent with them and imparting wisdom that would guide them through their lives.

Shirley leaves behind a legacy of love and memories cherished by her children, Cynthia Larsen (Neil), Vance Boyett (Tabitha), and John Miro. Her grandchildren, Alex Griffin (Renee), Derrick Griffin (Jordan), Zachary Boyett, Alyssa Templeton, Alec Templeton, and Ashton Templeton, will miss her guidance and unwavering support. Her brother, Paul Johnson (Marsha), and sister, Diane Paramore, along with her sister-in-law, Teresa Johnson, will remember her as the cornerstone of the family. Shirley's lifelong friendship with Wylene Arnold, spanning 35 years, reflects the depth of her loyalty and the kindness of her spirit. She was also a beloved aunt to many loving nieces and nephews, and she held a special place in the hearts of her friends, family, and cousins.

Her journey to peace was preceded by her parents, Fred Johnson and Lucille Lee; her brothers, Philip Johnson and Bobby Johnson; her sister, Faye Benefield; and her beloved dogs, Max and Vallie, who were her loyal companions.

Shirley Boyett's life was one marked by kindness, friendliness, and love. These words best describe a woman who lived with an open heart and a steadfast commitment to those she held dear. Her legacy will continue to live on in the lives of those she touched, and her memory will be a guiding light for generations to come.

As we bid farewell to Shirley, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a woman deeply loved. Her spirit, a blend of joy and fortitude, will forever be a part of the stories we tell and the lessons we carry forward. Shirley Boyett will be dearly missed, but her impact will remain, as enduring as the bonds she forged and the lives she enriched.

A memorial gathering to celebrate Shirley’s life will be held on Friday, September 27, 2024 at 2:00pm at Sunset Memorial Park.