Shirley Cawley Henderson

1936 - 2025

Shirley Cawley Henderson

July 13, 1936 - November 4, 2025

Shirley C. Henderson, 89, of Roanoke, VA, passed away on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at her home. She was born on July 13, 1936, to the late Jasper and Goldie Cawley.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her loving husband and soulmate, Ronald "Ray" Henderson. They were happily married for 60 years. Shirley never lost the sparkle in her eyes when speaking of Ray. She often prayed that her Lord God and Ray would come and take her "home."

Shirley was also predeceased by her eldest son, Ron Henderson; her in-laws, Robert "Cap" and Ella Mae Henderson; her sister, Faye Manning, and her husband, Wilbert; and their infant daughter, Dawn Michelle; and brothers-in-law, Bobby, David "D.D.," Charles Henderson (Judy), and Carl Lowe.

Shirley is survived by her son, Mike Henderson; grandchildren, Chandler Henderson Hurley (Jacob), Bryson Henderson; daughter-in-law, Alicia Henderson Rollins (Jeff); and great-granddaughter, Vivian Hurley.

When Shirley and Ray were married, she became a "Henderson" for life. As much as she loved her Cawley family, there was an equal amount of love for the Hendersons. She is also survived by her sisters-in-law, June Lowe, Genny Grant, Genieve Henderson, and Nancy Henderson Boyd (James). Shirley has numerous nephews and nieces that she cherished.

Shirley was especially fond of and loved her hairdresser, Geri Wood. Geri had "fixed" Shirley's hair for over 50 years. Shirley would have crawled up two flights of steps to get her hair "touched up" every week. Whenever, wherever, Geri was there to do Shirley's hair and visit.

Shirley's family would like to thank each of those that helped her and brought a smile to her face over the past years. She was thankful for the heartfelt care brought to her by Becky and Brittany Crawford and the meals sent to her by Sam Morris from Myrtle Beach. She missed her trips with family and friends to the beach. Shirley enjoyed sitting on the balcony looking at the beautiful ocean and keeping a watchful eye on Ray while he surf fished, not to mention the shopping and eating seafood at Calabash.

Shirley was so looking forward to being reunited with her "Heavenly Family." She will be missed by all who knew and loved her, but especially by her son, Mike. His loving mom was truly the "wind beneath his wings."

The family will receive friends on Sunday, November 9, 2025, from 2 to 5 p.m. at Oakey's Vinton Chapel. There will be a funeral service conducted at 12 noon on Monday, November 10, 2025, at Campbell Memorial Presbyterian Church located at 1130 Hardy Road, Vinton, VA, with Pastor Jonathan Moelker presiding. Although Ray had a strong connection and was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he and Shirley were proudly married at Campbell Memorial. They did not let their different religions separate them, but made them stronger. Their love for each other, for their God, sons, and family was so obvious.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Campbell Memorial Presbyterian Church, 1130 Hardy Road, Vinton, VA 24179. Condolences may be shared with her family by visiting www.Oakeys.com.

Oakey's Funeral Service - Vinton Chapel

Vinton, VA (540) 982-2221