Shirley Virginia Downey McLain

Shirley Virginia Downey McLain, 97, of Bedford passed away on Sunday, July 16, 2023, at Bedford County Nursing Home. She was born on August 20, 1925, in Lynchburg, VA. A daughter of the late Harry Lee Downey and Ela Downey. In addition to her parents Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, George Patton McLain; two daughters, Sylvia Smith and Barbara Argo; sister, Sylvia Mason and a brother, Harry Downey, Jr.

Shirley was a very loving and caring woman who was known for her keen since of humor. She loved her family and the time spent with them especially her grandkids and great grandkids. She was a stay-at-home mom and homemaker for many years and loved being able to be there for her family. Her favorite time of the year was Christmas when all her family came for Christmas at Grandmas. She also loved gnomes. She was loved by so many and will be missed dearly.

Shirley is survived by her daughter Patricia Smith and her husband, Robert; two sons-in-law, Duane Smith, and Denny Argo; six grandchildren, Kacey Smith Sterne and husband, Kevin, Amy Smith, David Argo and his wife, Julie, Adam Argo, Robby Smith, and Max Smith; four great-grandchildren, Tyler Sterne, Annie Sterne, Axel Argo and Ava Argo. Also surviving are two special nephews Danny Mason and H.L. Downey, III, and many friends.

For those wishing to make memorial contributions in Shirley’s memory please consider your charity of choice.

A graveside service and celebration of Shirley’s life will be conducted at 10:00 am on Monday, July 24, 2023, at Virginia Memorial Park. To send condolences online please visit tharpfuneralhome.com. Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Bedford is assisting the family.