Shirley Messer Tew, 87, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 5, 2022, at her home surrounded by her loving family. She was born on March 17, 1935, in Marianna, Florida. Shirley won the title “Miss Slocomb” during her sophomore year and graduated from Slocomb High School in 1953. She then married the love of her life, Cleburne Tew, on September 10th, 1954. They later welcomed two sons, Donnie and Gary. Shirley lived a full life and took pride in being a homemaker, spending time with her family, cooking in the kitchen, and fishing The Dead Lakes.
For those who were blessed to know “Granny” recognized that she was a selfless and caring person. She was happiest when surrounded by her grandchildren and eventually great grandchildren. Annual beach vacations to Mexico Beach and weekend trips to Dead Lakes with the entire Tew clan were right up her alley. If she wasn’t on the boat fishing or in the kitchen cooking, then she was at the table playing cards or coloring with the grand kids. She loved to go shopping, especially at Vanity Fair or the mall in Dothan, which usually ended with a meal at Morrison’s.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Robbie Clark Hogan; and sister, Nora Messer. Shirley is survived by her loving husband of 67 years, Cleburne; her children, Donnie (wife, Vicki) and Gary (wife, Nancy); her grandchildren Lee Tew (wife, Jackie), Dana Tew Wallace (husband, Mike), Kristin Tew Spradling (husband, Joe), Kelley Tew Kindelspire (husband, Jason), Kevin Tew, Hailey Tew Brumbaugh (husband, Eric); her great grandchildren, Shelby, Brooke, Cade, Coral, Leah, Kamdyn, Avery, Rhett Ellaree, Alice, and Luke; her sisters, Martha Burke, Betty Hegarty, and Mary Messer; an abundance of extended family members; and many special caregivers.
Graveside funeral services will be 10:00 AM, Monday, May 9, 2022 at Pinecrest Memorial Gardens with Rev. Gino Mayo officiating and James & Sikes Funeral Home Maddox Chapel directing.
Expressions of sympathy may be made at www.jamesandsikesfuneralhomes.com
