Shirley Lee Combs, 89, of Charleston, SC, passed away on Friday, September 5, 2025.
Born on September 28, 1935, in Scottsburg, IN, Shirley was the daughter of the late Goldie Maymon Watterson and the late Dallas Watterson.
Shirley was a loving and devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother (affectionately known as Maw Maw), and friend. She found joy in crafting, especially ceramics and sewing, and in cooking for her family. She treasured family traditions, from preparing a special New Year’s Day meal to making homemade dumplings at Thanksgiving and Christmas, traditions her family proudly carries forward. She also had a deep love for animals, and her beloved Bichon Frise, Charzie, always held a special place in her heart. Above all, she loved family and cherished every moment spent together.
In addition to her parents, Shirley is preceded in death by her husband, William Combs; son, Jeff (Traci) Combs and sisters, Kay Ferrell and Rita Stepp
Shirley is survived by her daughter, Lana (Jeff) Freshour; and grandchildren: Ryan (Merilee) Freshour, Cory (Haley) Freshour, Taylor (Mohnish) Combs, Noah Combs, Jonah Combs and Toby Combs; and great-grandchildren: Dawson and Evelyn Bo Freshour, Dashiell and Meadow May Freshour; and sister, Sue (Danny) Smith; along with several nieces, nephews and cousins.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Pet Helpers, 1447 Folly Road, Charleston, SC 29412 or by using this link: Pet Helpers.
Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at mcalister-smith.com/.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to McAlister-Smith Funeral and Cremation, 2501 Bees Ferry Road, Charleston, SC 29414, (843) 722-8371.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
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