Shirley Ann Snow Sullivan went to be with the Lord at her home in Amherst surrounded by her family on July 28, 2023. She was preceded in death by her parents, Elmer Early and Susan Lamb Snow, a brother Glenn Coleman Snow and a sister, Barbara Jean Snow.
She is survived by her three children: Rita Sullivan Hunt (John), Rhonda Sullivan Goff (Gregory) and Christopher James Sullivan (Debbie). Five grandchildren: Candace Hunt Reynolds (Kenneth), Carmen Hunt Walton (Justin), Jacob Gregory Goff, Christopher Daniel Sullivan, and Cara Sullivan Milster (Ian).
Eight great grandchildren: Abrahm, Nolan, and Samuel Reynolds; Norah, Elise, John and Isaac Walton; Leo Milster. Nephew, Scott Snow; Nieces; Cecelia Lloyd and Stacy Snow; and a sister-in-law, Janice Snow.
After attending Bridgewater College and Madison College (now JMU) for her teacher and library preparation, she began her teaching career in Shenandoah County, then on to Northern Kentucky where she continued teaching. While there, she began her graduate studies at the University of Kentucky.
After four years, she returned to VA to teach in Nelson County, later being the librarian at Nelson County High School for 20 years. During that time, she continued her graduate studies at JMU and UVA.
Her last 3 years, she spent in Amherst County Schools as Supervisor of Media and Educational Technology. Also, during her career she worked at Sweet Briar College Library as a regular part-time in reference and circulation. She enjoyed working with students of all ages; and it was her objective to help them to make as much progress as possible.
Shirley joined the Church of the Brethren when she was 12 and was actively involved through her high school years. Later, she attended the Presbyterian Church. She kept the principles of being kind, caring, honest and fair; and it showed in her dealings with her family, friends, and acquaintances. Her faith was important to her and brought her through the difficult times. Shirley was a dedicated mother, grandmother, and great grandmother; and was always concerned about providing for her family. She was a good friend to many and appreciated and valued her friendships. Many were so close that she thought of them as family. Also, she loved her pets, Roo and Otis, and shared her life with many.
The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, August 3, 2023, at Tharp Funeral Home, Madison Heights. A celebration of life service will be conducted at 11 a.m. Friday, August 4, in the Chapel of Tharp Funeral Home, Madison Heights. Interment will follow in Holly Memorial Gardens, Charlottesville, VA.
In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contributions be made to the Coolwell Presbyterian Church.
Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Madison Heights, is assisting the family.