Dowdy, Shirley Bailey

Shirley Ann Dowdy, age 79, passed away peacefully on April 24, 2026, at her home in Christiansburg, Virginia, surrounded by her loved ones. Shirley was born on April 28, 1946, in Giles County, Virginia, to the late William and Katherine Bailey.

She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband, Curtis Dowdy; her brothers, Billy, Warren, Harvey, and Jimmy Bailey; her sisters, Betty Neice, Della Rose, and Maxine Ratcliff; her nephews, Dennis, BJ Bailey, and Gary Lawrence; and her great-grandson, Matthew Rainer.

She is survived by her loving children, Leroy (Caroline) Dowdy, Teresa (George) Tice, and Snapper (April) Dowdy; she also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, Courtney (George) Rainer, DJ Dowdy, George Tice Jr, Curtis (Terra) Tice, Daniel Dowdy, Kari Dowdy, and Jacob Palmer; her adored great-grandchildren, Colsen and Declan Tice, Nicholas and Wyatt Rainer, and Marcus Cowen; and her niece, Wanda King.

Shirley’s greatest joy in life was her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She devoted much of her time to caring for them, creating countless memories through her love, attention, and steady presence. She took great pride in being a devoted mom and a deeply loving MawMaw.

In her quieter moments, Shirley enjoyed watching, “The Price is Right,” her favorite soap operas, and Lifetime movies. She also had a special fondness for Marian’s cooking, which she truly enjoyed.

Shirley will be remembered for her warmth, her devotion to her family, and the love she shared so freely with those around her. Her presence will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew and loved her.

The family will receive friends during a time of visitation on Tuesday, April 28, 2026 from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM in Kendall Funeral Home. A funeral service will be conducted Tuesday, April 28, 2026 at 2:00 PM with Pastor Mark Spencer officiating. Funeral Services will conclude in the Mount Calvary Baptist Church Cemetery in Christiansburg, Virginia where she will be laid to rest. A celebration of life will be held after the funeral services at Curtis and Terra’s house. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial donations be given to Kendall Funeral Home in Pembroke, Virginia to assist to family in offsetting the funeral expenses. A guestbook is available to send condolences to the family by visiting www.kendallfuneralhome.com. The staff of Kendall Funeral Home are honored to serve the Dowdy family.