Shirley Ann Toney

Celebrating the Life of Shirley Ann Toney

“Her laughter echoed love, her smile radiated joy, and her heart embraced all who crossed her path.”

Sunrise: December 17, 1955, Lyons, Georgia

Sunset: January 3, 2025, Miami, Florida

Shirley Ann Toney, affectionately known as a loving wife, devoted mother, doting grandmother, loyal sister, and steadfast friend, was called home on January 3, 2025. Her life was a testament to unconditional love, unwavering faith, and boundless generosity.

Born to the late Annie Howard and Junior Hunt on December 17, 1955, in Lyons, Georgia, Shirley grew up surrounded by family values that she carried throughout her life. She shared 46 beautiful years of marriage with her husband and best friend, Clayton Toney, Jr., building a legacy of love and devotion.

Shirley was the proud mother of four children: Gerry (deceased; wife Bernice), Clayton (wife Tracey), Daniel, and Marcus. She delighted in being “Grandma” to Kenneth, Bernice, Derrick (wife Mariah), Demitri, Keoni, Felicia, Gerry Jr., Jaden, Janiya, Daniel Jr., Alori, Naheem, and Naji. Shirley’s love extended to her great-grandchildren and a vast circle of family and friends, including her cherished best friend, Anna Sykes and favorite cousin Bobby Howard.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Annie Howard; her eldest son, Gerry; and her brothers, Robbie, Dennis, John L., and Robert.

She is survived by her husband, Clayton; children, Clayton, Daniel and Marcus; brothers Ernest, Benny, and Jeffrey (wife Catherine); her mother-in-law, Lorene Toney; her sisters-in-law, Cathrine, Bobbie Gail, and Vivian; her brother-in-law, John (wife Mary) and a multitude of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends.

Shirley had a unique gift for making everyone feel special. She offered her last to those in need and welcomed strangers as if they were family. Her laughter was infectious, her smile a light in any room, and her love an anchor for those around her. Shirley’s generosity knew no bounds, and her vibrant personality left an indelible mark on all who met her.

She lived life with purpose and passion, finding joy in both everyday moments and extraordinary occasions. Her legacy is one of strength, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to those she loved.

Shirley’s passions were as vibrant as her personality. She was an avid reader and loved word games. She was a lover of the outdoors who cherished nature’s beauty and had become an enthusiastic traveler who embraced the wonders of the world around her. At gatherings, Shirley was the life of the party, dancing with joy and spreading laughter wherever she went. She spoke her mind no matter what, and she wore her heart on her sleeve. She was beautiful both inside and out. Shirley's memory will forever remain a beacon of love and joy, lighting the way for those fortunate enough to have been touched by her presence.

While we grieve the loss of our matriarch, we also celebrate a life lived fully and richly, one that touched countless hearts and created a legacy of love and joy.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord.” – Matthew 25:23

I Thought Of You Today

I thought of you with love today,

but that is nothing new.

I thought about you yesterday,

and days before that too.

I think of you in silence,

I often speak your name.

All I have are memories

and a picture in a frame.

Your memory is a keepsake,

with which I'll never part.

God has you in His keeping,

I have you in my heart.