Shirley Cherry Beale was born on October 8, 1944 in Plymouth, NC to the late William and Leora Cherry.
Shirley was the eighth of thirteen children. She grew up surrounded by her siblings, William, Robert Lee, Chris, Arlander, Thomas, Theaster, Hilda and Theresa who all proceeded her in death. Shirley also was predeceased by her son-in-law, Clyde Truett.
As a youth she was educated in the Washington County public school system. During high school, Shirley enjoyed playing basketball, and outside of school she worked in the fields to assist with support for her family.
Shirley was a professional house maker for over 30 years. When not working, she enjoyed gardening, playing card games like spades/5000, crossword puzzles, family gatherings, and watching tv game shows.
Shirley leaves to cherish her fond memories, her husband of 58 years, Earl L. Beale Sr.; children, Wanda M. Truett, Earl L. Beale Jr.(Sara); stepdaughter, Kathareen Flythe; grandchildren, Andre Scione (Sierra), Kaila Beale and their mother, Jennifer Scione; step grandchildren, Kanita Flythe, Maurice Taylor Jr., Kenneth Tomlison, Amariah Argo, Jada Argo; great-grandchildren, Caia & Lily Scione; step great grandchild, Kaylee Taylor; siblings, Ermalee Goodman, Geraldine Davenport, Wilhelmina Blount; niece/sister, Quinterlene Bowen; close family friend, Debra Brown; in-laws, Carolyn Cherry, Hennis Cherry, James Beale (Jelain), Annie Vaughn, Doris Dozier, and Sylvia Beale. Shirley also leaves two young gentlemen who she adored and admired, who were the children of her employers, Ricky & Steven Zahn; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.