Shirley Ann Taylor, 73, of Morganton, NC, took her heavenly flight on Thursday, January 2, 2025 peacefully in her sleep.
Born in Burke County, NC on December 18, 1951, she was the daughter of the late Odell Icard and Azalee Annie Taylor Icard. Shirley was a member of Mt. Home Baptist Church and was known for her love of God, family, friends, life, and laughter. Her infectious smile would light up a room, and if you knew her you were blessed beyond measure. Shirley retired from Leviton – Southern Devices and enjoyed travel, Bingo, and thrift-store antiques. She also enjoyed collecting Pepsi-Cola salt and pepper shakers.
Those left to cherish her memory include her love of 34 years, Nathan Chapman; daughter, Tonya Wilson (Randy); grandchildren, Taressa Davis (Austin) and Caroline Clabaugh (Paxton, a.k.a. Billy); brother, Dean Icard (Vickie); sisters, Delores “Sissy” Cook (Tony) (her real life baby doll born on her 7th birthday) and Peggy Richardson (Bruce); sister-in-law, Vickie Taylor; nieces, Nicole Van Harken and Lindsay Moretz (Dustin); many cherished friends, some were very special, Brenda Osteen, Betty Bridges, Linda Prevette, Brenda Cornett, Jackie Greer, and Jenean Wilson.
In addition to her parents, Shirley was preceded in death by a brother, Clayton Taylor.
The family will receive friends from 2 to 5 p.m., Saturday, January 11, 2025 at Sossoman Funeral Home. The funeral will be held at 2 p.m., Sunday, January 12, 2025 at Mt. Home Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. Ed Yount, Rev. Rocky Hartman, and Rev. Ethan Cormer officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Home Baptist Church (mounthomebaptist.org)(opens in new tab) or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (stjude.org)(opens in new tab).
“God called your name so softly that only you could hear, and no one heard the footsteps of angels drawing near. It broke our hearts to lose you, but you did not go alone, for part of us went with you the day God called you home.”
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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Mrs Shirley was one of my most cherished Bingo friends. Her face always lit up when she spoke and most people would have never known of her pain. She was such a joy to be around and never had an unpleasant word for anyone. I could never go without a hug from her when she came to Bingo and I will truly miss those hugs of love and comfort that I always got from her. I cried at first but then I thought she is in a better place than I and her pain has been removed. No doubt that she will hear “Well done my servant” from the father, because her guidance was always positive. To the family and friends I will pray that the Comforter put you in his arms and hold you during your time of need while Mrs Shirley smiles down upon you all.
I am still in shock to hear the passing of my dear friend Shirley. I worked with Shirley at Leviton over 22 years, the last several years in planning where a bond of several planners became close friends. When we all moved on or retired from Leviton, this group would meet every few months to have dinner and just talk and laugh. I will miss this time dearly. I love you Shirley and I will miss you terribly.
Sorry to hear of the passing of Shirley. Prayers for the families. Sorry I can not attend the funeral. Love you guys. Mom wanted me (David Vick) to send a message.
Shirley was a kind and thoughtful person that was a great friend to all. She will be missed by all who knew her. Becky and I always loved talking and working with Shirley because of her positive energy. She always brought a smile and a laugh to every conversation. We are praying for her family.

Miss Shirley and I had a business relationship with some personal touch. She will be missed in our office. Prayers for comfort, acceptance, and understanding for her family and friends during this time. Such a sweet and caring lady.

It saddens my heart to hear of her passing. I had just met with her for her 2025 insurance needs the last part of 2024. Prayers for her family and friends to find acceptance, peace and comfort. She is sure to be missed by many.
Nathan, I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. May God give you strength and comfort in the days ahead. I'll keep you and the family in my thoughts and prayers. Pat Simpson
I got to know Shirley at work. I saw her many times after I retired and she always had that same sweet smile and friendly hello. She was such a good person and will be greatly missed. My deepest sympathy to all her loved ones.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and Nathan. We will miss our dinners with family get togethers. She was and now is a True Angel.