Shirley Kellum Humphrey died early in the morning of February 13, 2026, and was reunited with her husband of almost 72 years.

Shirley's remarkable life and legacy will be celebrated on Tuesday, March 3, at 1:30 pm, at Kellum Baptist Church, followed by a burial at Onslow Memorial Park. The family will receive visitors at 6:00-8:00 pm on Monday, March 2, at Jones Funeral Home in Jacksonville.

Shirley was born on July 14, 1935, in Jacksonville, NC, to Benjamin and Alma Kellum. She married Billy Humphrey on October 2, 1953. She was an unwavering partner to her adoring husband, spending her life supporting him during his career and building a loving home and life with him and their three daughters.

Shirley was a faithful servant, steadfast in her love for her church, Kellum Baptist. She served as the Clerk for the church and a Sunday School teacher for many years, was present with her husband anytime the church doors were open and gave countless hours to its programs. She worked alongside her husband for the church's Handyman Ministry and the Southern Baptist Disaster Relief. Shirley will be remembered fondly for her deep commitment to her family. Her home was always open to them, and she was happiest when they were close by and together. Her hospitality and comfort food were like a warm hug for anyone who walked through her doors.

Shirley is survived by her three daughters and their husbands, Kathy and Jerry Mallard, Sandra and Doug Davis, and Wendy and Greg Grantham. She is also survived by her five grandchildren, Beth Keith (husband Ted), Ben Mallard (wife Megan), Zachary Davis (wife Lizzie), Hali Grantham (partner Daniel) and Matthew Grantham (partner Lindsey), as well as her five great-grandchildren, Will Keith, Beckett Keith, Katie Mallard, Beau Mallard and Ivy Davis. In addition to her husband, Shirley has been reunited with her father, mother and sister, Retha.

Shirley's family would like to express their sincerest gratitude to the staff at Kempton of Jacksonville and Liberty Hospice for the compassionate care they tirelessly gave to Billy and Shirley in their last days.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for contributions to the Rise to Build fund at Kellum Baptist Church.