Shirley Jean Lord

Mrs. Shirley Jean Lord, 83, of Athens, passed away Saturday, February 22, 2025, in Athens, Georgia. The essence of her spirit remained strong until her Earthly body surrendered.  

Born on March 30, 1941, in Toccoa, GA., she was the eldest daughter of the late Curtis and Bertha McClain. Shirley, in her early years, was a hairdresser and worked at the University of Georgia’s Food Science department. Later in life, she was a homemaker and found joy in tending to her garden and cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs.

Survivors include her husband, Harold Lord; two daughters, Teresa Palmer (Mark) of Nicholson, GA; Sherri Lee of Hartwell, GA; and one son, Brent English of Athens, GA. She was loved by her nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Shirley is also survived by her younger sister, Carolyn Sellers, of Toccoa, GA.

Although her physical presence may no longer grace our lives, her courage will continue to inspire and uplift us. Her life was a blessing; her memory is our treasure. 

“A garden is a grand teacher.  It teaches patience and careful watchfulness; it teaches industry and thrift; above all it teaches entire trust.” Gertrude Jekyll

Funeral service will be held Sunday, Feb. 23^rd at 2 PM from the chapel of Little-Ward Funeral Home with Mr. Kevin Marable officiating with the interment following at Center Community Cemetery.  The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday from 12:30 PM till 2:00 PM.

Little-Ward Funeral Home, Commerce is in charge of arrangements.