Shirley M. Burgess

Shirley M. Burgess, a beacon of warmth and love, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2024, after a period of extended illness. She was surrounded by the love and comfort of her family in her hometown of Midland City, Alabama. Shirley, born on May 19, 1939, in the neighboring town of Newton, Alabama, was a cherished soul whose kindness and generosity touched all who knew her.

A graduate of Newton High School, Shirley’s life was rich with love and devotion to her family. In 1957, she married the love of her life, William "Bill" Burgess, and together they built a life filled with joy, laughter, and an ever-growing family. Shirley embraced her role as a homemaker with fervor, always ensuring that her home was a place of solace and celebration for her cherished husband, daughters Cassandra (Don) Carter and TaJauna (Alan) Jimmerson, her adoring 11 grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren.

Shirley's family was her pride and joy, and she was the bedrock upon which they built their dreams. Her grandchildren, Matthew (Katy) Peters, Mychal (Anslie) Peters, Laura Young, Jeniffer (Chris) Brune, Ben Jimmerson, Will (Keltin) Jimmerson, and Rachel Carter, along with her great-grandchildren, Whitley Preston, Grayson Jimmerson, Cylas Young, Sydney Young, Layla Brune, Carter Brune, Emma Jimmerson, Brayden Peters, Riggs Jimmerson, and Brody Peters, will forever carry the legacy of her love. Shirley also leaves behind her caring brothers, Mickey (Debbie) McKnight and Jimmy (Nelda) McKnight, brother-in-law, Sherman Benton, sister-in-law, Carolyn Burgess, and a host of nieces and nephews. Her light will be deeply missed by all.

Preceded in death by her parents, Monroe Cary McKnight and Iris Mae McNab McKnight, her sister, Jane Benton, and by her brothers, Hayward and Edwin McKnight, Shirley now reunites with them in eternal peace. Her life was one of unwavering faith and devotion, having grown up in the Newton 1st Assembly of God Church. Shirley's belief in the goodness of people and her steadfast faith were the cornerstones of her existence.

A selfless soul, Shirley was always the first to extend a helping hand and the last to ask for anything in return. Her strength was as gentle as it was resolute, and she navigated life's challenges with grace and an easygoing spirit. She enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, finding joy in being on the water, whether at the lake or living by the beach. Her home was a haven, always welcoming to friends and family alike.

A graveside service to honor and celebrate Shirley's life will be held at 11:30 am on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, at Gardens of Memory Cemetery with Sunset Funeral Home directing. The service will be officiated by Pastor Andy Wood and Pastor Raina McCallister, capturing the essence of Shirley's spirit and faith. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Gentiva Hospice, 2431 W. Main St., #1102, Dothan, AL 36301. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Gloria Woodham and to the doctors, nurses, and staff of Gentiva Hospice for the love and care they received during this difficult time.

Shirley M. Burgess will be remembered not just for the life she lived, but for the love she gave freely and the light she brought into this world. Her legacy will continue to shine in the hearts of those who loved her and in the countless lives she touched with her kindness.