MSgt John Shirley

MSgt John Shirley RINGGOLD Retired Master Sgt. John Franklin Shirley, 81, died Sunday April 13, 2014, at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Albertville, Ala., Jan. 20, 1933, a son of the late Oscar and Meda Westbrooks Shirley. Johnny married Georgia Faye Smith on May 17, 1952. MSgt Shirley was retired from the United States Air Force after 22 years of service serving in the Korean War. Johnny also retired from the Postal Service after 20 years of service. Mr. Shirley was preceded in death by five brothers and a sister. Survivors are his loving wife of 61 years, Georgia Faye Smith Shirley; daughter, Frankie (Ken) Lott, of Goose Creek S.C.; sons, John F. (Darlene) Shirley Jr., of Ooltewah, Donald (Deborah) Shirley, of LaFayette, and Tom (Rita) Shirley, of Soddy-Daisy; sister, LaRue (Ray) Parker, of Rising Fawn; seven grandchildren; 15 great- grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be noon Wednesday in the funeral home chapel with the Rev. James Julian officiating. Interment in Chattanooga National Cemetery with full military honors being conducted by Robbins Air Force Base. Visit www.Heritagefh.com to share words of comfort with the family. The family would like to thank Amedisys Home Health Care, Hospice of Chattanooga and Memorial Hospital for their compassion and care. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Spring Creek Road Baptist Church building fund, 1213 Spring Creek Road, East Ridge, TN 30712. The family will receive friends from 4-8 p.m. today at Heritage Funeral Home, Battlefield Parkway.