Catherine "Kay" Cullum Shirley

Aiken – Mrs. Catherine “Kay” C. Shirley, 83, passed away Thursday, December 28, 2023.

A Lifelong resident of Aiken, Kay was the only child of the late Furman Ellis and Louise Causey Cullum.  Kay attended Newberry College where she received an associate degree and met some lifelong friends.  She worked at the Savannah River Plant, as a Federated insurance assistant with her late husband, Red, and worked at Allstate with the late Walker Crosby. She was most proud of being a Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Cousin, and Friend.

Kay is survived by her daughter, Stephanie (Kevin) Callaway, Lewisville, NC; son Timothy (Sara) Shirley, Johns Island, SC; Granddaughters, Elizabeth & Emily Callaway; and Mel Sires a lifelong friend and partner.  

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, G.N. “Red” Shirley.

Kay was an active member of St. Johns United Methodist Church.  She loved working with the Apple Fest where she was co-chair one year, helping with the Alter Guild and attending the Mattie Mae Circle 1.  She was also a member of the Sunshine Garden Club where she loved helping with the Doll House each Christmas. She also loved playing Bridge, where she had 2 very special friend groups.

Those who knew Kay loved her.  Her love language was Act of Service!  She was very passionate about her football team, Old Miss Rebels. Her most favorite place to go every chance she could was Edisto Beach, her Happy Place!

A Celebration of Life for Kay will be held at 11:00, Tuesday, January 2, 2024, at St. Johns United Methodist Church with the Reverend Dr. Tim McClendon and the Reverend Grayson “Butch” Blackwell officiating. A Reception/Visitation will follow the service.  Prior to the service a private interment will be held in the Bethany Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to St. Johns United Methodist Church, 104 Newberry St. NW, Aiken, SC 29801.

SHELLHOUSE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 924 HAYNE AVE., AIKEN, SC

Kay’s online guest book may be signed by visiting wwwshellhousefuneralhome.com