Thomas Whitney Shirley Sr.

Tom Shirley was born on October 8, 1939, in Jacksonville, Florida, and was called to his eternal rest on August 24, 2022 in Gainesville, Florida.

Tom is survived by his wife, Betty Shirley, sister Carol Marohn (Richard), identical twin sons Tommy (Jen) and Terry (Cathi), and grandchildren Zachary, Kaitlin, Jessica, Caden, Jacob and Callan, along with extended step grandchildren Brooke, Issac, Leslie, Laura, Nathaniel & Timothy, and multiple nieces and nephews. Tom is predeceased by his sister Sherry Roberts (Don), along with parents Thomas and Ruby Shirley.

Tom graduated from Landon High School in Jacksonville, Florida in 1958. He then enlisted in the United States Coast Guard and served for eight years in the Active and Reserve component. Tom worked for many years for the Jacksonville Electric Authority as a lineman, and then for many years elsewhere in maintenance and in security.

Tom and Betty Shirley enjoyed a loving marriage for 40 years until his departure. They retired and resided in Trenton, Florida for the past 21 years and built many great memories together. Betty gave Tom two stepchildren, Renny and Debbie, whom he loved very much. Tom also led a valiant fight against cancer for nearly 13 years.

A graveside service will be held Friday September 2, at 2:00pm at the Forrest Meadows West Cemetery, 700 NW 143rd St. in Newberry, Florida 32669. Tom's nephew, the Rev. Dr. Tim Roberts, is officiating. Flowers may be sent to Forrest Meadows Funeral Home c/o Thomas A. Shirley, Sr. at 725 NW 23rd Ave. in Gainesville, Florida 32609.