Shirley Ann Ballinger Kelley

Shirley Ann Ballinger Kelley, age 80, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 10, 2025. Born on July 28, 1944, in Sumner County, Tennessee, Shirley was the cherished daughter of the late Cordell and Lucille Ballinger. A woman of warmth, grace, and unwavering love, Shirley found beauty in life’s simplest pleasures.

She had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and found joy in nurturing God’s creation—especially her beloved petunias and geraniums. Her green thumb was rivaled only by the way she tended to the hearts of those around her. A lifelong fan of Elvis Presley, Shirley’s love for his music brought her comfort and joy throughout the years—his songs often the soundtrack to her life’s moments, both big and small.

Shirley’s greatest joy came from time spent with her family. She was the heart of every gathering, always eager to bring people together for reunions and celebrations. She delighted in spoiling her grandchildren and great grandchildren, showering them with love and attention.

Shirley will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her love of nature, her devotion to her family and friends, and the way she made every person feel like they were the most important in the room.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Shirley is survived by her daughter: Robbie (Jeff) Fox and Becky (Stephen) Jones; granddaughters: Heather (Will) Goats, Hope (Clint) Holden, Brooke (Brandon) Mooneyham; grandsons: Austin (Adriana) Jones, Elijah Jones; great grandchildren: Brylie Blade, Brandon Sisk, Bentley Holden, Brayden Holden, Ella Kate Mooneyham; siblings: Charles, Leon, James, Kenneth, Bill Ballinger; Shirley is preceded in death by her husband: Bobby Kelley and siblings: Hattie Lou Brannon and Doyle Ballinger.

A graveside service to honor Shirley’s life will take place at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at Polk Memorial Gardens in Columbia, TN.

Pallbearers will be Austin Jones, Elijah Jones, Brandon Sisk, Will Goats, Brandon Mooneyham, Clint Holden, Bentley Holden, and Brayden Holden.

Williams Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences can be given to the family online at www.williamsfh.com