Shirley Cole

Shirley Joyce Key Cole, 85, of Symsonia, passed away Tuesday, September 30, 2025 at her home surrounded by those she loved.

She was born in Clayton, Georgia on August 6, 1940 to James Robert Key and Annie Ruth Benfield Key. Shirley was a homemaker and a devoted member of Clarks River Baptist Church. She was incredibly creative and spent her free time sewing, quilting, and painting. The beautiful art and blankets Shirley created will be cherished by her family for many years to come.

She is survived by two daughters, Sherry Cole Williamson and Debbie Thomasson (Brian), both of Hickory; one brother, James Key Jr. (Shirley) of Clayton, GA; two sisters, Judy Kell and Kathy Key; four grandchildren, Zachery Joseph (Liza), Kayla Black (Levi), Kurt Thomasson (Sarah), and Kyle Thomasson (Jamie); and seven great-grandchildren, Elliott Thomasson, Hadley Thomasson, Paisley Thomasson, Maddie Thomasson, Case Black, Letty Black, and Aiden Joseph; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, Billie Gene Cole; her parents, James and Annie Key; and four sisters, Betty Baker, Jo Ann Hopper, Ruth Key, and Melissa Hunter.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, October 4, 2025 at Collier Funeral Home with Bro. Jeff Collins officiating. Burial will follow at Clarks River Cemetery.

The visitation will be held from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM on Friday, October 3, 2025 at Collier Funeral Home.