Natalie Dionne (Southerland) Shirley

Ayden………………………It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Natalie Southerland Shirley, who left this world too soon on April 27, 2025, at the age of 43. Born on March 22, 1982, in the quaint area of Scott’s Store in Duplin County, North Carolina, Natalie lived a life with love, passion, and dedication to her family, friends and her community.

                                           Funeral service will be held Friday, May 2, 2025 at 7:00 P.M. at the Farmville Funeral Home Chapel by Rev. Jeff Toler.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service from 6:00 until 7:00 P.M.

                                           Natalie was the beloved daughter of Barbara Yarbro and Dexter Southerland.  She was preceded in death by her cherished parents, her loving stepfather, Larry Yarbro, and her father-in-law, Glenn Shirley.  She was also preceded in death by several other dear family members whose memories she held close to her heart.  

                                           In 2015 Natalie married her soulmate, Scott Shirley, in a beautiful ceremony in Ayden, North Carolina.  Scott was her partner in every sense- standing by her side through life’s joys and challenges, supporting her dreams and sharing her love for grilling, fishing, gardening at the Shirley Farm and outdoors. They affectionately knew each other as “Cornbread” and “Beefsteak.”  More than anything, Scott was her best friend, her rock, and her most devoted caregiver.

                                           Natalie was a proud graduate of East Carolina University where she earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.  Her passion for helping others led her to a meaningful career in child advocacy, where she dedicated herself to making a lasting difference in the lives of children and families.

                                           A devoted sports enthusiast, Natalie was passionate about Duke basketball and ECU football.  Her favorite night of the year was the fierce UNC vs. Duke matchup, when she could be found cheering on her beloved Blue Devils- especially in a house divided, as Scott stood firmly in the Tarheel’s corner.

                                           Natalie is survived by her loving husband, Scott Shirley; devoted mother-in-law, Judy Shirley; sister-in-law, Heather Bevell (Dwayne); stepsister, Nicole Beckham(Mike); stepbrother, Kyle Yarbro; nephews, Maddox and Jaden Bevell; great niece, Emmarie Bevell; and her very special companion Callie Girl.  She leaves behind a cherished extended family, including her uncles: Wayland Southerland (Joan), Gregory Southerland, Shelton Southerland (Jo), and Joe Sanderson (Dolores); aunts, Elizabeth “Punk” Knowles (Albert), Winifred Bell, Bonnie Rhodes (Russell), Becky Brock and Brenda Price. Natalie will also be deeply missed by her many beloved cousins and her dear friends.

                                           Her laughter was contagious, her kindness unmatched, and she had a zest for life in everything she did.  She had a remarkable gift for lighting up any room she entered, radiating warmth and joy to everyone around her. With an uncanny ability to bring people together, Natalie never met a stranger and she created lasting bonds and cherished memories wherever she went.

                              As we celebrate the life of Natalie, we remember her spirit, her kindness, and her strength as she battled courageously through her sickness. Though she may have left this world too soon, her legacy will endure in the hearts of all who loved her.

 Online condolences may be made at www.farmvillefh.com. 

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