Shirley Smith

Shirley Breeding Smith was born Shirley Elizabeth Breeding on December 7, 1942, to her loving mother and father, Ida Saylors Breeding and Willard Demps Breeding. She grew up on their family farm in Sparta, Tennessee with her five compassionate brothers: Joe, Demps, Charlie, David and Harold (Butch) Breeding and five fun-loving sisters: Wilene Steed, Catherine Fudge, Susie Turpin, Ann Crossnine and Judy Huckaby. She deeply cherished spending time with them and having fun with her nieces and nephews and their children, as well as her dearly loved daughter, Kristy Beth Smith, and her countless, wonderful friends; old and new, near and far. 

While so many hearts now ache with sorrow at her peaceful passing on December 26, 2023, we can find solace in knowing she lived life to its fullest and smiles lovingly down upon us from her beautiful garden in God’s glorious kingdom. Her infectious smile, bright blue eyes, and spunky personality lit up any room she entered and will be greatly missed. Her kindness made an incredibly positive impact on so many people in every city and state in which she resided or visited. She was much loved and will never be forgotten.  

Shirley did not want funeral services but her final resting place will be in the Swallowtail Butterfly Columbarium encompassing the tranquil fountain at Harpeth Hills Memorial Gardens in Bellevue, Tennessee. In lieu of flowers, a donation to Alive Hospice in Nashville TN is suggested. 

Thank You Mom 

Through the darkness of the night, 

You pointed out the stars above. 

With each new day in sight, 

You showed me how to love. 

Next music, friendship, giving- 

All these things I understood. 

Now I watch the sunrise with my heart; 

And I know that life is good. 

I love and miss you mom, 

-Kris