Shirley Mae Huffman Dagenhart

Shirley Mae Huffman Dagenhart, age 88, a beloved matriarch and cherished member of her community, went to her heavenly home on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at the Catawba Valley Medical Center in Catawba County. Born on Sunday, August 9, 1936, in Catawba County, Shirley touched the lives of many throughout her 88 years, leaving behind a profound legacy of love, determination, and community service.

During Shirley’s working career she was a co-owner of Fashion House Furniture with her husband and son-in-law. She found delight in playing in a rook club, where laughter and camaraderie filled the air. Her devotion to her family was evident to all who knew her; she adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, cherishing each moment spent nurturing and guiding them. A longtime member of Friendship Lutheran Church, Shirley found a home within its walls, actively engaging in the life of her faith community and fostering connections that spanned generations. 

Shirley is survived by her daughter, Connie Dagenhart Kerley (Guy), along with her treasured grandchildren: Julie Norcross (Jason), Casey Kerley (Melissa), and Colby Kerley (Summer). The light of her life brightened further with the presence of her great-grandchildren: Maya Norcross, Maddox Norcross, Karsyn Kerley, Rilyn Kerley, and Dagen Kerley. Additionally, she leaves behind a number of nieces, nephews, and special friends who will carry forward her memory and spirit.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 58 years, Harold M. Dagenhart, as well as her parents, Fred Lawrence and Annie Mae Brown Huffman, and her siblings: Margie Huffman Hefner, Glenn Lawrence Huffman, Willis Dean Hefner, and Kenneth Ray Huffman. Each of these individuals played a significant role in shaping the person Shirley became, and their memories live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

In celebrating Shirley’s life, we remember a woman full of grace, passion, and an everlasting commitment to family. Her legacy will undoubtedly endure through the lives she touched, and the memories shared, standing as a testament to a life well-lived and loved.

A visitation will be held at Friendship Lutheran Church in the Family Life Center, located at 5300 Church Road, Township of Taylorsville, NC 28681, on Monday, December 23, 2024, from 2:00 pm to 3:45 pm. The funeral service will be at Friendship Lutheran Church at 4:00 pm. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Pastor Josh Tucker will officiate. Casey Kerley, Colby Kerley, Jason Norcross, Maddox Norcross, Terry Hefner, and Ricky Rayfield will serve as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearer will be Dagen Kerley.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Friendship Lutheran Church, 5300 Church Road, Taylorsville, NC 28681 or Alzheimer's Association, PO Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090.

The outpouring of love and remembrance will reflect the indelible mark Shirley has left upon this world, forever cherished and fondly remembered.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Alexander Funeral and Cremation Service.

Condolences may be sent to www.alexfuneralservice.com