Gene Shirley, 80, of Greenwood, passed away Wednesday, November 13, 2024 at Hospice and Palliative Care of the Piedmont.

Born in Greenwood, he was a son of the late George Thomas Shirley and Ellen Opal Everly Shirley. A graduate of Lander College and the University of South Carolina, Gene was not only an accomplished teacher but also a passionate advocate for the arts. With a master's degree in fine arts in hand, he dedicated his career to nurturing young minds at Cambridge Academy and Lander University. After his retirement from teaching, he continued to share his creativity with the community through his business, Signs and Art. In addition to his dedication to education, Gene proudly served his country as a member of the US Army during the Vietnam War. Gene attended Callie Self Memorial Baptist Church and Northside Baptist Church.

He is survived by his sister, Faye Lambert; brother, Jim Joyce (Maureen); two nieces, April Pruitt (Jay) and Christi Poore (Bryan); and two great nieces, Kirsten Poore and Kinsley Poore.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Mary Tinsley and brother-in-law, Lester Lambert.

A memorial service, with military honors, will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Monday at the Harley Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Jeff Lethco and Rev. Barry Butler officiating.

The family will receive friends following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Arts Center of Greenwood, 120 Main Street, Greenwood, SC 29646 ( www.artscentergreenwood.com ).

Live Service Here: https://youtube.com/live/rOpSbuQZQPM?feature=share