Shirley "Fay" Teats

Shirley “Fay” Teats, a devoted wife, beloved grandmother, and friend, passed away on October 10, 2024, at the age of 76. Born in Springfield, Tennessee, on March 1, 1948, Fay’s spirit was as vibrant and beautiful as the flower gardens she tended throughout her life.

Fay is preceded in death by her parents, Walter Brent Felts and Mary Nancy Browning; children, Sherry Kay Curle and Tony Randall Curle.

Fay is survived by her loving husband, James “Jimmy” Teats; children, Marty Curle, Tim Mangrum (Jessie), and Brent Eugene Buttrey (Lisa); step-children, Jasmine Teats, and Jairus Teats (Ariana); grandchildren, Andrew Curle (Bay-Lee), Nicole Kay Dean (Caleb), Blake Eugene Buttrey, Nathan Mangrum, Kaylee Mangrum, and Kinsley Mangrum; siblings James Felts (Josey), Betty “Hen” Felts, and Kathey “Birdie” Hancock.

Fay was a dedicated technician at Nissan, a role where she not only honed her skills, but also met the love of her life, Jimmy. Her education began at Cohn High School located in Nashville, Tennessee. Fay was always neat, tidy, and prepared. This meticulous quality followed her into every aspect of her life, as Fay was always prepared, making her a reliable friend to those who were fortunate enough to know her.

An avid lover of flowers, especially roses, Fay found joy working in her gardens. Her passion for nature was matched only by her enthusiasm for antiquing, where she could often be found discovering treasures that held stories of their own. Fay’s love for family was palpable, particularly her cherished grandchildren, whose laughter and antics filled her heart with joy. Her nurturing spirit extended to everyone around her; Fay had a special way of keeping Jimmy in line, a testament to her loving yet firm nature.

In addition to her many interests, Fay found solace in watching forensic files and detective shows, patterns of mystery perhaps reflecting her meticulous and on-top-of-it mind. She loved to explore open houses and flower gardens, where her keen eye for beauty and detail always found something to admire.

Fay’s proudest accomplishments included her delicious banana pudding and sherbet punch, beloved treats that delighted family gatherings, especially for the grandchildren, and brightened celebrations.

Her legacy of love, care, and devotion will continue to bloom in the hearts of her family and friends. Fay’s life was a testament to the beauty of simplicity and the profound impact that kindness and diligence can have on the world around us.

Visitation will be held at Harpeth Hills Funeral Home on Wednesday, October 16th, from 3:00pm – 7:00pm, as well as Thursday, October 17th, at 12:30pm, with Celebration of Life to follow at 1:30pm. Interment will be at 2:30pm on Thursday, October 17th, at Harpeth Hills Memory Gardens.