Shirley Kathryn Walker Anthony, 84, of Valdese, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 following a brief illness.

Shirley was born March 20, 1942 in McDowell County, a daughter of the late Benjamin Franklin and Mary Frances Boston Walker. She loved to be outside and was very fond of the mountains. Her favorite place to be was working her flower garden. She loved the church, but, more than anything, she was a loving wife, momma, Nana, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. She will be deeply missed.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in passing by a granddaughter, Olivia Ruth Hollar; brother, Gary Walker; and sister, Edith Peterson.

Those left to cherish her memory include her husband of sixty-six years, George Guy Anthony; two daughters, Tammy Morrow (Steven) of Valdese and Sherry Hollar (Marty) of Hickory; four grandchildren, Matthew Hollar, Augustus Morrow, Boone Hollar, and Finley Morrow; four greatgrandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at 12 PM at East Valdese Baptist Church with Rev. Chip Stallings officiating.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at East Valdese Baptist Church from 11 AM to 12 PM.

In consideration of Shirley’s deep love for flowers, the family would like to specially request that memorials be made in the form of flowers for her service.

Heritage Funeral Service & Crematory is assisting the family.