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Shirley Marie Smith, 59, of Greensboro, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family.
Born on June 7, 1966, in Annapolis, MD, she was the daughter of William Speas and Irene Koc Speas. Shirley graduated with the Class of 1984 from North Caroline High School. She continued her education at Wesley College, earning her bachelor’s degree, and later received a master’s degree in education from Salisbury University.
Shirley was a dedicated educator for over 20 years, touching countless lives with her compassion, patience, and love for learning.
She loved to travel with her husband, Bill, she had a love for sightseeing out west. Shirley also had a deep passion for cooking and found joy in preparing meals for her family, often sharing cherished stories from her childhood growing up alongside her siblings and cousins.
Above all, her children and grandchildren were the center of her world, and she poured her heart into being a devoted mother and grandmother.
Along with her parents, Shirley is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bill Smith, and her brother, John Speas.
She leaves behind a beautiful legacy through her three children: Clara Lituski (Joe), Rene Wright (Tyler), and Sonny Wright (Kristyn); and eight grandchildren who will carry her memory forward: J.J. Davis, Cheyanne Davis, Robbie Gribble, Kista Gribble, Ryker Lituski, Joseph Wright IV, Ollie Brannon, and Everson Brannon (due in October). One brother Bill Speas, and three nieces and nephew, John Speas, Kyle Speas, and Emily Speas.
A visitation will be held at Fleegle and Helfenbein Funeral Home on Friday, August 22, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM, followed by a Funeral Mass at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church in Ridgely, MD.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in memory of Mrs. Shirley Smith to a charity or cause close to your heart.
Shirley will be remembered for her warmth, her laughter, and the love she gave so freely. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
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