Shirley Bryant

Shirley Ann Bryant passed away Friday, June 06, 2025. She was preceded in death by her parents, Gladys "Biggie" Newcomb and Alfred Beckner; husband James C. Bryant; brothers Clarence Beckner and Robert "Bear" Beckner; sister Betty Beckner; and special cousin Betty Welch. She is survived by her daughter Kitty Edwards and son-in-law Robert Edwards; brother Cleatus J. Newcomb and sister-in-law Joyce Newcomb; sister Norma Broughman; nephews Charles "Peewee" Beckner and Jerry Beckner; niece Deanna Newcomb; granddaughter Sarah Anderson; many beloved friends and neighbors; and her cherished poodle Molly. Shirley was a lifelong resident of Buchanan, VA. Many rugs were cut in her day, both literally and figuratively, as she was both a beautiful dancer and long-time employee of James Lees. She then worked at Country Cookin', Burris Department Store, and Natural Bridge Hotel, retiring four separate times before deciding to stop working at the age of 82. Shirley loved dogs asmuch as she despised Christmas; had a sharp sense of humor and sharper sense of style; andtook in any stray who showed up at her door, be they animal or human. Known to nearly everyone in Buchanan as Memaw, this tiny woman had a big attitude and an even bigger heart. The family will receive friends and loved ones at Botetourt Funeral Home Tuesday, June 10 from 6-8 p.m. A celebration of life will be held Wednesday, June 11 at Buchanan Presbyterian at 11 a.m., with Reverend Donna Hopkins Britt officiating, following a private interment at Fairview Cemetery for the family. A reception will follow in the Fellowship Hall of the church to share stories about our honky tonk angel. The family would like to thank the Amedisys Hospice team who cared for Miss Shirley with compassion, humor and heart. And while flowers are beautiful, the family requests donations be made in Memaw's name to Angels of Assisi.