Shirley Joyce Gambrell

Late in the evening of Saturday, February 11, 2023, Shirley Gambrell, 82, entered into eternal rest.

Shirley was born on November 9, 1940, in Jackson, Mississippi to the late Algie “Buck” Sanford and Elsie M. Sanford. Growing up in Jackson, she attended Provine high school where she met and fell in love with Wendell, her bus driver. Wendell was a senior at Provine during this time and the seniors were allowed to drive the school buses to pick up students. During her life, Shirley worked as a stewardess and hygienist. She and Wendell were married in 1962 and started their family. In 1986, the family moved to Warner Robins. Shirley was an avid bowler and participated in the local bowling league. She enjoyed working in her yard and even won the recognition of Yard of the Month. Shirley liked to watch Family Feud, the travel channel, and the soap operas. She also enjoyed camping and fishing. They spent much time camping at Lake Blackshear, especially, where she really enjoyed the lake life and spending time with all of the friends she met there. Her most rewarding work was taking care of her beloved children and grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Wendell Gambrell; daughter, Christy Adams and siblings, Dorothy Stringer and Edward Sanford.

Her memory will forever be treasured by her daughters, Renee Gambrell (Danny) and Wendy Gray (Brad); grandchildren, Christopher Gray (Brittany), Corey Gray (Porcha), Ashleigh Gray (Will Ford), Madison Richardson (Nick Romeo), Morgan Richardson, Kalie Ball (Cierra Ball), Amber Ball and Justin Ball; great grandchildren, Kaiden, Holt, Anslee and Rylee, and son in law, Larry Adams.

Visitation with Shirley’s family will be Wednesday, February 15, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 a.m. at McCullough Funeral Home with the funeral service celebrating her life following at 12:00 p.m. in the chapel of McCullough Funeral Home with Reverend Daron Gray officiating. Following the service, Shirley will be laid to rest in Magnolia Park Cemetery.

Go to www.mcculloughfh.com to sign the Online Registry for the family. McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.