Shirley Ann Taylor Conaway's Obituary
Shirley Ann Taylor Conaway departed from this life Sunday December 3, 2023, peacefully at home with her family. Shirely was born in Millsboro, Delaware on December 1,1947 to the late David Lynwood and Sarah Bethards Taylor.
Shirley was a graduate of William C Jason High School and during her first year of college she met the love of her life, William Conaway, through her mother, and was married in 1968. From this union 3 beautiful children were born - Vernon who preceded her in death in 2022, Russell, and Andrea. Shirley and William were married for 36 years before he preceded her in death in 2005.
After starting a family, obtaining her degree remained important to and later, when her children were older, she returned to Delaware State University where she earned her Bachelor’s of Science degree in Education and Master’s of Curriculum and Instruction . Shirley was passionate about education and for over 30 years lovingly nurtured and taught children and adults, while encouraging them to remain focused and resilient; and that like her they could reach their goals. She began her teaching career at Faith Elementary School and several years later began teaching in Lake Forest School District from which she retired in 2006.
Shirley loved travelling, gardening and of course spending time with siblings, her children and grandchildren. During the summer she loved packing up and spending the day at the beach or out in nature at a park. Above all her commitment to her faith and her love for Christ was at the forefront of all she did. She was a faithful and committed member of Mt. Carmel Seventh Day Adventist Church in Harrington for more than 30 years, where she served as Sabbath School Division leader, Lay Activities Secretary, Adventist Youth Leader, Pathfinder Counselor, Sabbath School Superintendent, Usher, Choir member and 50 plus club leader. She loved her church family and whatever her hands could find to do she did with excellence.
Shirley was also preceded in death by her parents David and Sarah Taylor, siblings; Pricillia Taylor-Snell , Slyvia “Jennie” Santiago, Dwight Taylor, Wanda Taylor, Catherine Taylor, Robert Taylor; and beloved great niece Aliyah C. Simms.
She leaves behind to cherish her memory her children; Russell Conaway of Norfolk VA, Andrea Conaway of Harrington DE, Matred Conaway of Macon GA, Sharon Conaway of Denton MD, Jill Robinson of Jefferson GA. Grandchildren; Shakeira Conaway of Denton MD, Christiana Conaway of Jefferson GA, Shaylen Conaway of Denton MD, Ashton Conaway of Jefferson GA and Jeremiah Gadson II of Milford, DE. Siblings: Linda Perry (Lawrence) of Chesapeake, VA; Pamela Taylor, of Millsboro, DE; Bertha Taylor of Baltimore, MD, Bruce Taylor of Georgetown, DE, Sebrena Taylor of Millsboro, DE, Gail Reed (Linwood)of Millsboro, DE. Goddaughter; Christi Allen of TN, close friend and confidant, Janice Parker, as well as a host of nieces and nephews.
A funeral service will be held on Thursday, December 14, 2023, at 1:00 PM at Mount Carmel Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 103 Mechanic St., Harrington, DE 19952, where the viewing will be held from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM. Interment will take place at 1:00 PM on Friday, December 15, 2023, at Barratt’s Chapel Cemetery, 6486 Bay Rd, Frederica, DE 19946.
Please sign Shirley’s guestbook at www.watsonfh.com.
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