Shirley Dean McGee

Shirley Dean McGee, 86, of Bald Knob, AR went to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday, January 21, 2023. She was born November 2, 1936 in White County, AR to the late Grady and Myrtle (Siler) Smith. Growing up she could be found helping out on the family farm, attending the little country church down the road, and spending time with her family and friends.
Shirley got married to the love of her life, the late Richard Earl McGee, on March 1, 1952. They raised three beautiful girls and were members of New Bethel General Baptist Church. Shirley loved to serve in any way she could, especially when it came to her church and community. When asked how she wanted to be remembered, Shirley said, "I loved the Lord, and I loved people. I loved my family. They always came first." She never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone.
She was affectionately known as "Nana" to all who met her. Going to Nana's was the best part of all our family gatherings and holidays. Anyone was welcome, and she always made anyone who came feel like family. She was a great cook and was known for her cinnamon rolls, chocolate gravy, and yeast rolls. She loved working at the Bald Knob School cafeteria where she retired in 2015 as Kitchen Manager after 47 years of devoted service.
She was preceded in death by her daughter, J'Laine Gill, and grandson, Jason Goodin. She is survived by her brother, Lindell (Sharon) Smith of Huntsville, AL, two daughters, Sharon (Dwight) Cox of Velvet Ridge, AR and Tammy (Robert) Goodin of Vilonia, AR, 5 grandchildren, Jeremy (Joyce) Goodin, Angela Cox, Aaron (Laura) Cox, Kalynn Gill, and Kim Gill, and 7 great grandchildren. Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Jeremy Goodin, Cameron Goodin, Jordan Goodin, Ethan Davis, Aaron Cox, David Cox, and Marvin Cuevas.
A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, January 26, 2023 at 3:00p.m. at New Bethel General Baptist Church with Bro. Caleb Decker and Bro. Blake Goodwin officiating. Visitation will precede the service, beginning at 1:30p.m. Interment will follow in the Shady Grove Cemetery (Steward Addition). Arrangements are entrusted to Powell Funeral Home, Bald Knob - Judsonia. www.powellfuneralhome.net