Shirley Ann Harrison White

Shirley Ann Harrison White, 87, of Benton, departed this life peacefully on Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2022, at her home surrounded by her beloved family.

She was born on Dec. 9, 1935, in Stanton, Kentucky, to the late William F. and Elsie Vance Harrison Sr., and was a lifelong member at First Presbyterian Church of Stanton. After graduation from high school, she received her bachelor's degree in 1958 from Berea College in Berea, Kentucky, majoring in home economics. Upon completing her studies, she then traveled to Benton, where she became employed with the Polk County Department of Education. She had the blessing of educating hundreds of students throughout her career, was a faithful and dedicated pianist/soloist at Benton United Methodist Church, and was a passionate supporter of the Kentucky Wildcats, Tennessee Lady Vols, and Polk County Wildcats.

She met the love of her life, W.K. "Toddy" White, while excursioning the roads along Lake Ocoee, and together they traveled the world following The Big Orange for over 60 years with a few of their dearest friends. Along with being a well-loved educator, pianist/soloist and traveler, being a mother, sister, daughter and nana was her true life's pleasure.

She was the faithful and devout wife of 61 years to W.K. "Toddy" White; beloved mother of Lisa W. (John) Beard and Jennifer W. (Charlie) Qualls; cherished Nana to Tracy W. Beard, Tucker "Tuck" Beard and Kristin Bastian, Ryan N. Qualls and Nikki Dean, and Stephanie Q. (Alex) Akins; great-granddaughters, Ivy Grace and Emma Ann Qualls; beloved brothers, William F. "Billy" (Davona) Harrison Jr., and Henry C. (Brenda) Harrison; and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of friends.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2023, at Benton United Methodist Church, with her brothers, Billy and Henry Harrison, officiating.

Family and friends will gather from noon to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, prior to the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Benton United Methodist Church, 135 Highland Drive, Benton, TN 37307.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to Nikki Dean and Laken Lankford for their dedicated and compassionate care throughout Shirley's final days.

Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.higginsfuneral.com. 

Higgins Funeral Home of Benton is in charge of arrangements.