Shirley Jean Falls

Shirley Jean Falls, 72, of Savannah, departed this life on Wednesday, November 19. She was born on May 2, 1953, in Savannah, Tennessee, the daughter of the late W.S. and Ruth Greenway Falls.
Shirley’s life was a life of faith and love for her family and church. She influenced many children as she served the Hardin County school system for 38 years. As a teacher of music, she brought joy to many little faces over the years and she created student programs that were loved by the students and parents alike. A favorite was the Veteran’s Day program, always citing her dad as a World War II veteran and sharing history through music. She recognized that for many children, music was very important to academic success. From her days in the music department at Bethel University, to the days in classrooms, and in her church, music was a big part of her life. Serving as Choir Director for 25 years at East End United Methodist Church she shared her love for others in song, whether it was in church on Sunday morning or at a funeral or wedding. She loved being with family, her nieces, her cousins and most especially travelling with two special cousins, Bonnie and Debbie. In retirement, she looked forward to Wednesday Pizza Hut lunches with her East End friends, and once-a-month special lunches with her high school classmates. For all who have been a part of her life at East End UMC, she will always be remembered, not only for her beautiful singing voice but also for her pimento cheese and brownies. She found joy in doing for others and loved gifting food, especially at Christmas. Her smiles, hugs and love will be missed by all who were blessed to be part of her life.
She is survived by her sister, Janice M. Shelby (Bill); nieces, Tracye Shelby Huffaker (Howard) and Allison Shelby Davey (Michael); and great-niece, Taylor Grace Davey.
In addition to her parents, Shirley was preceded in death by her great-niece, Hayley Huffaker.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Bethel University (Music Dept,) 325 Cherry Ave, McKenzie, TN 38201, East End United Methodist Church, 285 Fairground St., Savannah, TN 38372, or Darryl Worley Cancer Center, 935 A Wayne Road, Savannah, TN 38372.
Memorial services were held on Monday, November 24, at East End United Methodist Church in Savannah, Tennessee, with Rev. Steve Douglas and Rev. Eric Limbo officiating. Burial followed at Neill Cemetery in Savannah, Tennessee.