Shirley Virginia Stephens

Shirley Virginia Stephens, a cherished mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 7, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on March 5, 1940, in the warm, close-knit community of Opp, Alabama, she was the beloved daughter of DT Helms and Eula Virginia Blackman. Shirley's life was a testament to the values of hard work, family, and joy in the simple pleasures of life.

A proud graduate of Opp High School, Shirley went on to dedicate 40 years of her life to the textile mills, where she was not only a diligent worker but also a friend to many. Her strong work ethic and amiable nature made her a respected figure both on the factory floor and within her community.

Shirley's passions were as rich and fulfilling as her work life. She found great joy in fishing, an activity that provided not just relaxation but also a connection to the serene beauty of nature. Her love for the outdoors extended to cherished times spent at the lake. Time spent with family also created memories that were treasured by Shirley and her loved ones.

A sports enthusiast, Shirley could often be found cheering on her favorite teams from the comfort of her living room. Braves baseball and Alabama football were among her preferred spectacles, and her enthusiasm for her teams was infectious. Her love for sports was paralleled by her love for literature, and she spent countless hours immersed in the worlds within her beloved books.

Above all, Shirley valued the time she spent with her family. She is survived by her two devoted sons, Randal Moore (Sandra), and Donald E. Fish Jr., who, along with her four grandchildren, Tiffany Sheffar, David Mickel (Jennifer), Chris Moore (Embry), and Joshua Moore (Kiara), filled her life with laughter and love. The joy she experienced as a grandmother was only magnified by the arrival of several great-grandchildren, as well as the affection of numerous nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in her heart.

She is preceded in death by her beloved spouse Jesse Stephens, her parents DT Helms and Eula Blackman as well as her cherished daughter Lynn Whitman. 

As we bid farewell to Shirley Virginia Stephens, we celebrate a life lived with purpose and joy. We take comfort in knowing that Shirley's journey through life was a remarkable one, and she will forever remain in our hearts as a beacon of love and strength. 

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