Shirley Holbert McEntyre, 85, of Tryon passed away on May 29, 2016. She was the daughter of the late Jake and Maude Pack Holbert and widow of the late Paul H. McEntire.

Shirley was a lifelong resident of Polk County. As one of 13 children born in the Depression era, Shirley learned resilience, perseverance and great adaptability at a young age. She shared a close bond with her siblings from childhood until her time of death. Shirley was a devoted wife and mother and raised four children of whom she was very proud.

She was employed with Polk County Schools and retired as a secretary from the school system.

Shirley was a woman of deep and abiding Christian faith. She was a member of Hope United Methodist Church in Flat Rock, NC. She was always an active volunteer in church, community, and civic organizations.

Shirley was an avid reader, talented at basket-making and quilting, and loved traveling. She also enjoyed flea markets and antiquing. Shirley had a wonderful sense of humor and taught invaluable lessons of integrity, determination, and generosity.

Shirley lived an abundant life and was an exemplary model of care and compassion who found joy in giving sacrificially to others. Multitudes of individuals have been recipients of her generosity and benevolence. Shirley’s greatest passion was her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and she had the distinct ability to make each feel special and loved uniquely. She will forever be fondly remembered and immeasurably missed.

She is survived by two sons, Choya (Doris) and Dale (Wendy) McEntire; two daughters, Robin

(Larry) Foster and Emily Porter (Travis Saulman); nine grandchildren and six great grandchildren; a brother, Raymond Holbert; two sisters, Katherine Barnett and June Smisor. She was predeceased by several brothers and sisters.

The family will receive friends from 12 – 1 p.m. on Friday, June 3, 2016 at Petty Funeral Home where funeral services will follow at 1 p.m. conducted by Larry Foster and Rev. Todd McCollough. Burial will be in the Peniel Baptist Church Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of the Carolina Foothills, 130 Forest Glen Drive, Columbus, NC 28722 or to the charity of one’s choice.

The family is at the home of Robin and Larry Foster.

Condolences may be left at www.pettyfuneralhome.com.

Petty Funeral Home & Crematory
Landrum, S.C.