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BOYKINS – Shirley Simmons Bryant, 94, passed away May 25, 2023, in her home. Born in Capron, Virginia on April 7, 1929, she was the daughter of the late Howard Clyde Simmons and Beatrice Davis Simmons. She was predeceased by her husband of 49 years, George Oliver Bryant and a brother, Howard Clyde Simmons Jr

Shirley grew up on Davis Lane in Branchville, along with many aunts, uncles and cousins who gathered most Sundays for fellowship and lunch after church.

A graduate of Boykins High School, Shirley went on to attend Madison College for two years and graduated from Longwood College with a teacher’s degree. Her teaching career included Holland, Drewryville and Southampton High School and as a substitute teacher at Southampton Academy. She was a social worker in Southampton County for many years where she enjoyed helping people in the community.

Shirley was a member of Boykins Baptist Church for over 50 years where she was active and taught Sunday School. She especially loved people and always enjoyed a good conversation. She liked to entertain, refinish furniture and was an excellent seamstress.

Left to cherish her memory are her son, Franklin Simmons Bryant and his wife, Theresa; her daughter, Olivia Claud and her husband, John; a special granddaughter, Logan Olivia Bryant; Theresa’s daughter, Lisa Chilcote; John’s son, Scott Claud; seven great-grandchildren; a special niece, Charlotte Gupton and a forever friend, Sarah Rock Grizzard.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, May 31 in Boykins Baptist Church with Pastor Brooks Gale officiating. Memorial donations may be made to Boykins Baptist Church, Boykins Volunteer Fire Dept & Rescue Squad or Southampton Academy.

The family wishes to thank Shirley’s caregivers for their wonderful care and devotion to her well-being, Audrey Wilkerson, Phyllis Walker, Kathie Tyler, Eileen Everett, Judie Boone, Florence Tann, Edna Worrell, and Dinah McCullough, along with a special thanks to her PA, Becky Babb.

www.wrightfuneralhome.org