Kenly – Shirley Bedford Johnson, 82, passed away on Sunday, February 12, 2023 at UNC Health Johnston in Smithfield. Shirley was born in Wayne County on July 4, 1940 to the late Johnnie and Lomie Woodard Bedford.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Hugh Johnson and siblings, Ruby Collier Waddell, Lucille Balance, Bessie Smith, and J.T. Bedford.
Shirley is survived by her daughter, Terry Dawson of Fremont; sons, Dwayne Johnson of Kenly and Jeffrey Johnson of Seattle, WA; five grandchildren, Michael Dawson, Ashley Johnson, Chris Johnson, David Johnson, and Jesse Hugh Johnson; five great-grandchildren; siblings, Brenda Merritt, Gerald Bedford, and James Bedford; several nieces and nephews; and her friend and caregiver, Rosetta Holland.
Shirley worked at the TA Truck Stop for 40 years. Shirley was a member of Pinkney Missionary Baptist Church.
Shirley loved to sing at her church on Sunday morning and at Hickory Crossroads Church on Sunday evening for their sings. Never idle, she was always out and about visiting others. She will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.
A service celebrating Shirley’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 18, 2023 in the chapel of Kenly Funeral Service with Rev. Steven Gay and Rev. Andy Stovall officiating. The family will greet friends from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. during the hour prior to the service at the funeral home.
The family suggests memorials be given in Shirley’s memory to Pinkney Missionary Baptist Church, 3157 NC Hwy. 581, Fremont, NC 27830.
Arrangements by Kenly Funeral & Cremation Service. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.kenlyfs.com.
