Shirley Jean Stancell Smith, (84) passed peacefully on July 29 ^th 2022.  The stormy skies over Gates County opened and the clouds parted with a beautiful pathway of light to welcome her home.  She joins her husband of 59 years and the love of her life, William Thomas (Billy) Smith.   She was predeceased by Billy, and by her sister Delores Ann Stancell West.

Jean was the daughter of the late Emmett Curgus Stancell and Vivian Britton Stancell Gray.

She grew up in Suffolk where she played sports and graduated from Holland High School.

Jean was a member of Bethlehem Christian Church and The Bethlehem Trio.  She enjoyed many years with the Fellowship Club, the Savage Circle and singing in the choir.   She volunteered at Obici Hospital and in the community.  Jean was a spectacular home maker and enjoyed music, cooking, gardening, sewing and hosting family and friends.  She loved fishing, boating, camping, watching sports and traveling with Billy.

She is survived by her Children:   Janet Smith Whitfield (JD), Thomas Ray Smith, (Shelly) and Jo Anne Smith White.  Grandchildren:   Joseph Britton Whitfield (Dacia), Meagan Jeanette Whitfield, Courtney Waugh Hoffpauir (Madison), Victoria Jean "Tori" White, Brianna Page "Bri" White, Camryn Grace Smith and Logan Thomas Smith.  Step Granddaughter:  Myranda Waugh.  Great Grandchildren: Savannah, Winter, Joey and Roxana.  Brother:  Emmett Wayne Stancell (Cathy) and numerous nieces and nephews.

Services will be held on Thursday, August 4 ^th at 11AM at Bethlehem Christian Church followed by burial in the Church cemetery and a reception in Graham Hall of the Church.   Visitors are being received at the home of Wayne and Cathy Stancell.   Memorial Donations may be made to the Bethlehem Christian Church Food Pantry or the Bethlehem Ruritan Club.  Condolences may be registered online at www.parrfuneralhome.com