Shirley Chastain

Carter

Shirley Chastain Carter passed away Sunday November 24, 2024, at the age of 93 at Woodleaf Assisted Living in Thomasville.

Born to the late Elmo and Helen Chastain on August 22nd, 1931, in Thomasville GA, Shirley was the second of three daughters, and a 1949 Thomasville High School graduate.

Growing up in Thomasville was never lonely; Shirley was one of 12 Chastain cousins who spent a lot of time together, as most of them were very close in age.

Shirley was married in 1952 to Billy Carter, who was a service station owner and served several years as a Thomas County commissioner. They had three children: Carol, Vali, and Wesley, and were active members of the First Methodist Church. Over the years they lived in Thomasville, and later in Metcalf, where Shirley enjoyed her garden and other aspects of rural living.

Shirley was a natural beauty, spirited and independent. She was creative and talented, excelling at cooking, decoupage, sewing and crafts. But Shirley's biggest gifts to those who knew her were a positive attitude, wry sense of humor and resilience.

In later years, after all members of her family had passed away, Shirley moved to Woodleaf Assisted Living, where she regularly visited with her cousin and dear friend Cutter Knapp until his passing. She was watched over and cared for by Cutter's son, J Knapp, whom she grew to love greatly, as well as by many special staff and caregivers.

Survivors include her grandchildren Sharon Cochran and Kenneth Ashley Floyd, her sister Miriam Warren, cousin, Bobby Knapp, brother-in-law Erwin Seitz, daughter-in-law Elisa Carter, nephews Jim Seitz, Steve Seitz (Bev) and Greg Vaughan (Connie), and nieces Laura Seitz Palmer (Charlie) and Paige Vaughan Ballard (John).

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband Billy Carter, daughters Carol Vining and Vali Carter, son Wesley Carter, infant great-grandson Austin Phillips, sister Patricia (Pat) Seitz and brother-in-law Percy Warren.

A graveside service will be held at Laurel Hill Cemetery, on 9th St, on Sunday, December 1st, 2024, at 2:00pm with Dr. Jimmy Clanton officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.