In loving memory of

Shirley Ann Wilson
July 18, 1934 - April 17, 2020

Shirley Ann Laugherty Wilson, age 85 of Knoxville, TN passed away peacefully Friday April 17, 2020 at West Hills Health and Rehab. She was born July 18, 1934, In Princeton, IN. She married James Oliver Wilson on November 27, 1953 and remained married for 67 years until her passing. The union of Shirley and James produced two children, two grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
Shirley is preceded by her parents Roy Ray Laugherty and Margaret Clark Laugherty, brother Earl Wayne (Bud) Laugherty and sister Mary Jean Laughtery Larison. Shirley loved music and loved to sing and play piano. She sang in her church choir as well as being a soloist.
Left behind to celebrate her life are her husband James Oliver Wilson, sons David Wayne Wilson and Donald E. Wilson and wife Debbie L. Wilson, granddaughters Heidi Nicole Wilson Sensing and husband Ryan M. Sensing and Tara Leigh Wilson Flemings and husband Chase B. Flemings, great grandchildren Scarlett Ryan Sensing and Oliver Wilson Sensing.
Gentry Griffey Funeral Chapel is honored to serve the Wilson family and invite you to sign the online registry.

Tributes

Bill Routh wrote on Apr 21, 2020:

"Shirley was Bill's den mother in Cub Scouts. Shirley and Jim made a wonderful life together. Our prayers are with Jim, David., Donnie, and their family. With love and best regards, Bill and Martha Routh"

Sarah Lewis wrote on Apr 20, 2020:

"Shirley has been such a beautiful lady for as long as I've known her. She was always a treat to see at family gatherings. I hate that we have to experience such grief on this side of heaven. I long for the day when we can truly say...O Death, where is thy sting?! My prayers are with your family. Love, Sarah (Gil's daughter)"

Lydia Smith wrote on Apr 20, 2020:

"If there?s one thing I know about Aunt Shirley it?s that she LOVED her boys!!! Jim, David, and Donnie!!! I am praying for you during this time. Shirley had the most radiant smile and glow about her. She was always the happiest with her guys around her. The way she spoke about each of you exuded love and family. She will be so missed and never forgotten. We will see her again!! "

Doris Dexter wrote on Apr 19, 2020:

"Jim, how sorry I am to learn of Shirley's death. She was a beautiful person with a beautiful smile and outlook on life. I am certain losing her will leave a big hole in your life. My heart grieves for you and your family. Love and prayers. Doris Byars Dexter"

Debbie Brown wrote on Apr 19, 2020:

"Jimmy, David and Donnie... praying for you all as you go through the grieving process. Aunt Shirley was loved by many and I will always remember her beauty and kindness to everyone. I am sure Heaven is a brighter place today!"

Joe deatherage wrote on Apr 19, 2020:

"Jim and David, we are thinking of you both during this time. We miss seeing you, and I certainly miss my walks and talks with David. Prayers for blessings to all of the family. Your former neighbors, Joe and Nancy Deatherage. "