Shirley Wooten Athan

Mrs. Shirley Wooten Athan passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 15, 2025, at the age of 88. Born on November 3, 1936, to the late Otho and Bertha Wooten, Shirley lived a full and vibrant life surrounded by the people and things she loved.

Shirley had a joyful spirit and a passion for life's simple pleasures. She especially loved playing Bingo, cheering on her beloved Wake Forest Demon Deacons, and spending sunny days at the beach house in Calabash, NC, with her husband, Herbert “Hub”. The two shared a beautiful life filled with laughter, love, and shared adventures—particularly their enjoyment of NASCAR events. A lover of animals, Shirley had a special affection for dogs, and before her illness, she spent time gardening and even worked at a local florist, where her creativity could bloom.

Shirley was a devoted and loving wife to Hub, and their partnership was an example of true companionship. She was also a caring mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, who cherished her family deeply.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Hub; her sister, Frances Miller; her brother, Charles Wooten; and her daughter, Beverly Kim Childress.

Left to cherish her memory are her children, Vicki Berkeley (Kip), Larry Athan (Krista), and James Wesley Athan (Ashley); her grandchildren, Eric, Devin (Becky), Anne (Drew), Lindsay (Daniel), Michael (Michelle), and Ranger; her sister, Betty Brewer; as well as a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and extended family members too numerous to name—but all dearly loved.

A funeral service to honor Shirley’s life will be held at 12:00 noon on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at Olivet Moravian Church. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. Friends and family are invited to gather for light refreshments in the church fellowship hall immediately following the service.

Shirley will be remembered for her warm heart, her devotion to her family, and the joy she brought to all who knew her.

Hayworth-Miller Silas Creek Chapel is assisting the Athan family.

Online condolences may be made at www.hayworth-miller.com