Shirley D. Wilson, of Fairfax, VA earned her wings and peacefully passed into the loving arms of our Lord and Savior on September 6th. She was 90 years old.

Shirley was born in Martinsville, Virginia to the late Frank and Lucy Divers. She graduated from Martinsville High School and went on to graduate from Madison College in Harrisonburg, Virginia in 1958. She later earned a master’s degree in counseling from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.

Shirley was a devoted and loving wife who shared 67 wonderful years of marriage with her beloved husband Roy. Their life together was built on love, commitment, friendship, and countless cherished memories. Through all of life’s joys and challenges, she remained a constant source of love, strength, and support. Their 67 years together were a beautiful testament to a lifelong partnership and an enduring love.

Shirley dedicated 33 years of her life to education, serving as a sixth grade teacher, high school teacher, guidance counselor, and later as a guidance director. She was deeply committed to her students and took great pride in helping young people grow and succeed. For Shirley, education was more than a career – it was an opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of others. That commitment was especially evident when she established the first Leadership, Experience and Opportunity (LEO) Club at the high school where she worked. This club is the youth organization of Lions Club International and under Shirley’s guidance, many young people gained valuable experience in community service, leadership, and volunteerism.

Shirley was also a generous and devoted member of the Bailey’s Crossroads Lions Club for 32 years. She served with distinction and provided leadership at both the local and state levels, giving generously of her time and talents to others. Over the years, she served as Club President, District Governor, Chairperson of the Council of Governors, and Club, State, and District Bland Musical Chairperson. In recognition of her extraordinary service, Shirley received the Ambassador of Goodwill Award from Lions International which is the highest recognition awarded for services rendered throughout the world. Her lifelong commitment to serving others was a true reflection of who she was. Lion Shirley will be missed so very much!

Family and friends were the heart of Shirley’s life, and she treasured every opportunity to spend time with those she loved and create memories that would last a lifetime. She especially cherished family vacations and Christmas cruises, where simply being together was always the greatest gift. She also looked forward to traveling to the Caribbean each Thanksgiving with a very special group of lifelong friends. The destinations were wonderful, but for Shirley, it was the time spent with those she loved that made every journey truly meaningful.

Shirley was an extraordinary woman who will be remembered for her caring and generous spirit, her deep love for family and friends and her wonderful zest for life. Her kindness, warmth, and willingness to give of herself to others touched the lives of many. She had a way of making every moment special and leaving a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her. To know Shirley was to love Shirley!

Shirley was predeceased by her parents, (Frank and Lucy Divers), and her sisters Pauline Thompson and Margie Franklin. She is survived by her husband, Roy Wilson of Fairfax, VA; her son David Wilson (LeAnne) of Arlington, VA; daughter Laura MacCoy (Todd) of Mt. Gilead, NC; brother Frank Divers (Jan) of Chandler, AZ; four grandchildren; one great grandchild; nieces and nephews; as well as extended family and many dear friends.

She will be held in the hearts of many - forever missed, deeply loved and never forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Shirley’s memory to the Bailey’s Crossroads Lions Club, P. O. Box 1741, Manassas, VA, 20108.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Park West Lions Club Community Center, 8620 Sunnygate Drive, Manassas, VA, on Tuesday, September 29th. The service will start at 1:00 p.m. followed by a reception.