Shirley Ann Hartnett, a woman of boundless love, generosity, and talent, passed away on February 5, 2025, at the age of 85.
Born on December 31, 1939, in North Carolina to John and Rachel Turnbull, Shirley devoted her life to her family and the many passions that made her truly special.
After high school, she embraced her greatest role as a homemaker, creating a warm and welcoming home filled with love, laughter, and the irresistible aroma of her incredible cooking. She had a gift for the culinary arts, mastering everything from Filipino to Italian cuisine—all from scratch, never from a jar or package, and always made with love.
Shirley had a green thumb like no other, coaxing even the most delicate plants to bloom. She could revive a wilting flower, cultivate a thriving vegetable garden, and even bring orchids to life with her nurturing touch. Her home was always full of vibrant beauty, much like the warmth she shared with everyone she met.
Her greatest joy came from her family, especially her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom she adored beyond words. In her later years, she found solace and enjoyment in reading, often diving into the autobiographies of her favorite country music legends.
Shirley was kind, helpful, and endlessly generous. She was as beautiful as the flowers she nurtured and as strong as the roots that held them firm. Her legacy of love and care will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Rachel Turnbull; her first husband, Gerald Hankinson; her second husband, Michael Hartnett; her siblings Louise Childress, Horace Turnbull, John Turnbull; and her grandson Tyler Bock.
She leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory forever: her children Cindy Kekipi, Steve Turnbull, Jimmy Cowell, Lisa Simmons, Karyn (Gary) Hankinson, Nikkie Andrews, and Tina (Carl) Bock; her grandchildren Misty Ertsgoard, Jason Hankinson, Robert Turnbull, Johnathan Turnbull, Joseph Turnbull, Amie Dale, Tiffany Baldwin and Hayden Bock; numerous great-grandchildren; her dear sister, Rebecca Cabiniss; and her sweet boxer dog, Tucker, who was her devoted companion.
A chapel and graveside service will be held in Littleton, NC, with the date and time to be announced.
Shirley’s love, wisdom, and kindness will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to bloom in the lives she touched.
