Shirley Geouge Briggs, age 88, went Home to dance around the throne on Sunday, December 21st, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering devotion to her family. She was born in the Celo Community of Yancey County to the late Nate Geouge and Winnie Hall Geouge Barker. In addition to her parents, Shirley was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Thurman Briggs, who passed away in 1999; her son, Darrell Briggs; her daughter, Diane Ross; her sister, Betty Grau; and her brothers, Rev. Billy Geouge (Frances), and Charles Barker.
Shirley was a faithful member of Bowditch Union Church, where she taught Sunday school and always directed the Christmas plays, the Bible Schools, all weddings, and other church activities. Her faith and love for others were evident to all who knew her. She dedicated more than 24 years of service to the Department of Social Services, retiring after a long and meaningful career helping others. In addition, she worked for many years as a talented floral designer with Flowers by Vance. In addition to working at the florist, she also planned and designed countless weddings, bringing beauty and joy to many special occasions.
She had a creative spirit and enjoyed crafts, loved to travel, and was known for her ever-present smile that could light up any room. Shirley loved her family and grandchildren fiercely and was famous for her big, snug hugs — squeezing you tight while always making sure to tell you she loved you. When asked how she was doing, Shirley’s answer was always the same: “I’m great!”— even on the days when she wasn’t.
She is survived by her daughter-in-law, Sabrina Briggs of Spruce Pine; grandchildren: Tara Graybeal (Derick) of South Toe, Heath Briggs (Sasha) of Green Mountain, and Christopher Sullins (Mary) of Atlanta, GA; and great-grandchildren: Destiny Elkins, Kaylee Graybeal, Paisley Graybeal, Millie Graybeal, and Waverly Briggs. She is also survived by her brother, Harry Barker (Martha) of Cobbs Creek, VA, along with several nieces, nephews, extended family members and her church family who will cherish her memory.
The family will receive friends from 12 noon until 2 p.m. on Saturday, January 3rd, 2026, at Yancey Funeral Services. A private burial will be held in the Carroway Cemetery, where Shirley will be laid to rest beside her husband, Thurman.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Compassionate Care WNC for the wonderful and loving care provided, with a special shout out to both Della Miller and Kim Ogle.
To send online condolences to the family, please visit www.yanceyfuneralservice.com.
