Shirley Ann Olive, 76, passed away Monday, Feb. 20, 2017, at Lauderdale Christian Nursing Home.
Shirley was born one of nine children in Wayne County, Tennessee to Herschel and Corene Olive. She was stricken with polio at the young age of ten. Doctors gave no hope that she would ever walk or talk again and told the family that she would not live more than two years. Although her mind remained forever a little girl and her body sustained partial paralysis, Shirley defied all odds. Thanks to much prayer and the nurturing and determination of her mother, grandmother, and aunts, Shirley was fitted to leg braces two years later and taught to walk and talk.
She remained very active throughout her life. She was best friend and playmate to her sisters, brothers, 28 nieces and nephews, and numerous great-nieces and nephews. She loved outdoors, flowers, gardening, and apples. Her favorite things were: make-up, fingernail polish and jewelry, especially beads.
She was a 21-year resident of Lauderdale Christian Nursing Home where she remained active. A huge thank you to all of the staff at Lauderdale Christian and especially to some special friends (you know who you are) for all that you have done to give her such a fulfilling life.
Shirley is survived by her sister, Brenda (Terry) Holden, and brothers, Richard (Tena) Olive, Jessie (Nancy) Olive, Robert (Jeri) Olive, and Danny (Bonnie) Olive.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Herschel Sr. and Corene Olive; brother and sister-in-law, Herschel Jr. and Betty Olive; sister and brother-in-law, Jack and Francis Stutts; and sister, Glenda Olive.
Visitation will be Wednesday, Feb. 22, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Greenhill Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow at 1 p.m. with Brother Mike Nabors officiating. Burial will be in Railroad Cemetery.
Greenhill Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.
