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MERRY HILL, NC – Shirley Dean Smithwick Perry, 85, passed away October 16, 2021. She was born in Merry Hill, NC, the daughter of the late Edward Smithwick and Margaret Williams Smithwick.

Shirley was predeceased by her husband, Lowell Gene Perry; and siblings, Cennie Miller, Jesse Williams, Roy Williams, Charlie Phelps, and Louis Phelps.

After retiring as a seamstress she enjoyed reading, spending time with family, and participating in the Suffolk Farmers Market.

Shirley is survived by her daughters, Sharon Joyner and Monica Keel; son, James Walter “J.W.” Johnson; grandchildren, Shannon Dunlow (Bobby), Amanda Hobbs (Dane), Rebecca Joyner, James Johnson Jr. (Kelly), Kellie Keel (Corey), and Edward Joyner; great grandchildren, Landon, Grant, Peyton, Lexi, Seth, Gavin, Keegan, Ansley, Ella, and Joanna; brother, Kenneth Smithwick (Brenda); and special nephew and caretaker, Wayne Williams.

A graveside service will be held Thursday, October 21, 2021 at 11 a.m. at Hillcrest Cemetery in Colerain, NC with Pastor David Walther officiating. Friends may join the family for a time of visitation on Wednesday night from 7-8 p.m. at Parr Funeral Home & Crematory in Suffolk, VA.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Condolences may be registered online at www.parrfuneralhome.com.