Shirley Mayes

Shirley Ruth Mayes of Marietta, age 84, passed away Sunday, August 25, 2024, surrounded by her family. Mostly known as Sweet Shirley, Mom and Nana were her most beloved titles. She loved fiercely and deeply and cherished her family and friends. She could light up a room with her smile and beaming blue eyes. She was a true Southern Belle who loved to play dominos and was ruthless at cards. She loved to travel and visit new places where she could try new foods and recipes, but being with her family, playing games and a huge home cooked meal were her favorite things to do.
Preceding her in death were her mother, Ruth Weed; stepfather, Charles Weed of Lithonia; father, T.J. Sheppard of North Carolina; sister, Rebecca Howell of Lithonia; and two brothers, Tom Sheppard and Jim Sheppard of North Carolina. Survivors include her husband, James A. Mayes, Jr., of Marietta; sons, Tommy Mann and Sammy Mann of Buckhead; daughter, Lori & Barry O'Kelley of Snellville; granddaughter, Morgan O'Kelley of Lawrenceville; grandson, Steven & Bailey O'Kelley of Bethlehem; great-granddaughters, Millie and Emerie; step-son, James A. Mayes, III, & Johnna; grandchildren, Angel and Camber; great-grandson, Eli of Abilene, Texas; step-daughter, Angie Alley of Mexico Beach, Florida; and so many cousins, nieces and nephews that we just can't list them all. But she loved each of you the way only she could love. She made everyone feel so special.
In addition to being a homemaker while raising her children, she went on to own and operate Shirley's Sweet Sensations Bakery, making beautiful wedding, birthday and specialty cakes for the local community, country music stars and celebrities. Though she retired, she still made the most amazing cakes for her friends and family.
A celebration of life service will be held 11 o'clock, Saturday, September 7, 2024, in the chapel of Henry Funeral Home, 6833 Church St., Lithonia, GA, with Pastor Kenny Dockins officiating. The family will receive friends on Friday, September 6, from 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm and 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm at Henry Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Atlanta Humane Society in her name.