Shirley Mae DeLong

Shirley Mae DeLong, 88, of Dahlonega, GA, passed away peacefully at her son’s home in Loganville, GA, on August 6, 2025. She was born in Atlanta, GA, on August 23, 1936, to the late Coleman and Audrey Allen.

Shirley was a devoted wife to Raymond DeLong for 27 years and was previously married to the late Hollis Edgar Polk. She was known for her warmth, generosity, and enduring strength. A wonderful cook, baker, and storyteller, Shirley brought people together through both her kitchen and her kind spirit. She had a deep love for roses and daylilies, and a lifelong fondness for Elvis Presley.

Shirley worked for many years at the beloved Alpharetta Soda Fountain and retired in 1999. She touched the lives of countless people through her work, friendships, and most of all, through the love she gave her children and grandchildren. Her family was the heart of her world, and she was theirs.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Coleman and Audrey Allen; her brother, Paul Allen; her sister, Annie Simerly; her first husband, Hollis Edgar Polk; her beloved husband, Raymond DeLong; her niece, Patricia “Tish” Hardy; and her grandson, Kane Bowman.

She is survived by her children and stepchildren: Richard Polk (Nancy) of Loganville, GA; Danny Singletary of Duluth, GA; Rob DeLong (Jill) of Dahlonega, GA; Allison DeLong of Oceanside, CA; and Kim Kazmier (Tim) of Knoxville, TN. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Jennifer Case (Mike) of Knoxville, TN; Kassie Singletary of Kimberly, AL; Daniel Singletary of Duluth, GA; Remington DeLong (Raven) of Dahlonega, GA; Rixcin DeLong of Dahlonega, GA; and Deliliah DeLong of Dahlonega, GA; Her great-grandchildren: Aniston Case of Knoxville, TN; Raelynn and Ryker DeLong of Dahlonega, GA. Her sister, Doris Evans of Dawsonville, GA, and several cousins, nieces, and nephews also survive her.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 30, 2025 at 12 noon at Bearden Funeral Home in Dawsonville, GA.  The family will receive friends beginning at 11 a.m.

Shirley will be deeply missed but forever remembered for the love she gave, the stories she told, and the beautiful legacy she leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers please donate to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org.

Condolences may be expressed at www.beardenfuneralhome.com.

Bearden Funeral Home, Dawsonville, GA.