Shirley Calloway Younce, age 77, of Sawmills, NC/ Creston, NC born January 30, 1948, took her heavenly flight Monday, May 26, 2025 at 6:30 in the morning, surrounded by the love of her cherished family. Shirley was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and woman of unwavering faith. Born and raised in Sawmills, North Carolina, Shirley built a beautiful life rooted in love, service, and song. She and her devoted husband, Pastor Allen Younce, began their life together in Sawmills, NC before eventually moving to the serene mountains of Creston, NC in Ashe County, where they embraced their dream retirement and continued to serve the Lord through Sutherland Baptist Church, where Allen is the pastor.

A dedicated and successful businesswoman, Shirley owned and operated Family Insurance Services in Hudson, NC, where she helped countless families for many years before retiring. But her most treasured roles were that of a pastor's wife, a nurturing mother, and a proud grandmother. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy, and she poured her heart into every moment spent with them.

Shirley had a voice that could move hearts and lift spirits. Her singing was more than music—it was ministry. With a truly angelic gift, she touched the lives of many through her worship and presence, leaving behind echoes of her voice in the churches and hearts she inspired.

She is survived by her loving husband of 59 beautiful years, Allen Younce; two daughters, Levonda Stewart (Rick) of Sawmills, NC, and Melissa Younce of Sawmills, NC; and four beloved grandchildren: Cassidy Robbins (Ollie) of Hickory, NC; Joshua Stewart of Simpsonville, SC; Hayleigh Livingston (Hunter) of Lenoir, NC; and Caleb Stewart (Shiane) of Sawmills, NC. She is also survived by her sister, Mary Calloway of Hudson, NC; brothers, William Calloway (Mary) of Hickory, NC; and sister, Tina Bolick of Lenoir, NC, along with many extended family members and dear friends who cherished her deeply.

Shirley was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Beatrice "Granny B" Annas Calloway and William "Willie" Frank Calloway; her sister, Wanda Barnes (Bill) of Hudson and her brothers: Roger Calloway Sr. (Mary Lou) of Granite Falls, NC; Fred Calloway of Virginia; Benny Ray Calloway of Lenoir, NC; and Edwin Calloway of Virginia.

Her life was a beautiful example of grace, strength, and love—a true reflection of the faith she lived by. Her presence will be dearly missed, but her legacy will live on in every life she touched.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, May 29, 2025 at 2:00 P.M. at Greer-McElveen Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Lonnie Lackey and Rev. Raymond Spann officiating. Interment will immediately follow at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service from 1:00 to 2:00 P.M. at the funeral home.

Serving as pallbearers will be Caleb Stewart, Josh Stewart, William Calloway, Hunter Livingston, Mark Greer, Rob Bolick, Jeff Walker, Roger Calloway, and Johnny Church.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.greer-mcelveenfuneralhome.com.

Greer-McElveen Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the Younce family.