Shirley Reese Nodes

Shirley Reese Nodes, a beacon of love and faith, passed away on June 5, 2025, after an extended illness. Born on August 23, 1946, in DeFuniak Springs, Florida, Shirley lived a life characterized by service, devotion, and joy. Her final days were spent surrounded by the love of her family in Headland, AL, where she had made an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew her.

Shirley's life was one of steadfast love and commitment, beautifully illustrated by her nearly 58-year-long marriage to her beloved husband, Wendell Willkie Nodes. The couple exchanged vows on November 11, 1967, and since then, built a life together founded on mutual respect and affection. Their union was blessed with a son, Gerald Paul, who, alongside his wife Rose, continued the legacy of love that Shirley and Wendell exemplified.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Gerald Price Drew and Lollie Orea Johnson Drew, as well as her brothers, Bobby and Tommy Drew. Her family circle was further extended to include her cherished grandchildren, Juliana Nodes, Johnathan Vandegrift, Justin Vandegrift (Amber), and Jessica Vandegrift (JoAnna), who brought immense joy to her life. Her niece, Kimberly Drew, great-grandchildren, Joseph, Caiden, Ethan, and Emma Vandegrift, as well as her great-niece, Arizona Bishop, and great-nephew, Dakota Bishop, will hold dear the memory of her loving presence.

Shirley's professional life was marked by her 20 years of dedicated service in the US Navy, where she rose to the rank of lieutenant. Serving alongside her husband, she displayed an unwavering commitment to her country. Following her military career, Shirley, together with Wendell, embarked on entrepreneurial ventures, opening and operating the Headland Oil Processing Company (HOPCO) and Emu Miracles in Headland, AL. Their businesses were not just commercial pursuits but also expressions of their shared passion and teamwork.

A woman of deep faith, Shirley was an active member of Harvest Church, where she found strength and solace in her church family. Her love for the Lord was the cornerstone of her existence and influenced every aspect of her life. Shirley's interests reflected her zest for life and her love for people. She adored the beach, relished in traveling, took pleasure in gardening, and cherished times of fellowship and shopping. A loving wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend, Shirley's generosity knew no bounds. She took delight in hosting gatherings, where her captivating and contagious smile would light up any room.

In every sense, Shirley was the life of the party, always ready to share a laugh or lend a listening ear. Her kindness was as bountiful as her generosity, and she touched the lives of many with her charitable spirit. Shirley's legacy is one of a life well-lived, full of love, faith, and generosity. She is deeply loved and will be sorely missed by the countless lives she enriched.

A celebration of Shirley’s life will be held at 2pm in the Sunset Funeral Home Chapel on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, with Bill Dominy officiating. Military honors will follow the service at the Sunset Helicopter Pavillion. The family will be receiving friends an hour prior to the service in the chapel.