January 7, 1937 ~ June 6, 2025
Shirley Ann Bryant passed away Friday, June 6, 2025.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Gladys “Biggie” Newcomb and Alfred Beckner; husband, James C. Bryant; brothers, Clarence Beckner and Robert “Bear” Beckner; sister, Betty Beckner; and special cousin, Betty Welch.
She is survived by her daughter, Kitty Edwards, and son-in-law, Robert Edwards; brother, Cleatus J. Newcomb, and sister-in-law, Joyce Newcomb; sister, Norma Broughman; nephews, Charles “Peewee” Beckner and Jerry Beckner; niece, Deanna Newcomb; granddaughter, Sarah Anderson; many beloved friends and neighbors; and her cherished poodle ,Molly.
Shirley was a lifelong resident of Buchanan. Many rugs were cut in her day, both literally and figuratively, as she was both a beautiful dancer and long-time employee of James Lees. She then worked at Country Cookin’, Burris Department Store, and Natural Bridge Hotel, retiring four separate times before deciding to stop working at the age of 82. Shirley loved dogs as much as she despised Christmas; had a sharp sense of humor and sharper sense of style; and took in any stray who showed up at her door, be they animal or human. Known to nearly everyone in Buchanan as Memaw, this tiny woman had a big attitude and an even bigger heart.
The family received friends and loved ones at Botetourt Funeral Home Tuesday, June 10 from 6-8 p.m. A celebration of life will be held Wednesday, June 11 at Buchanan Presbyterian at 11 a.m., with the Rev. Donna Hopkins Britt officiating, following a private interment at Fairview Cemetery for the family. A reception will follow in the fellowship hall of the church to share stories about our honky tonk angel. The family would like to thank the Amedisys Hospice team who cared for Miss Shirley with compassion, humor and heart. And while flowers are beautiful, the family requests donations be made in Memaw’s name to Angels of Assisi.
