Shirley Needham Hooker, age 81, of Carthage, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 22, 2023 at FirstHealth Hospice House in Pinehurst.
Born in Moore County on October 25, 1942, she was the oldest daughter of the late James (Jim) and Grace Williamson Needham.
Shirley graduated from Pfeiffer College with double majors in English and History. She later graduated from the University of Greensboro with a Masters Degree.
Shirley taught school for 40 years in Moore County at various schools including Samarcand, North Moore, Aberdeen Middle, Union Pines, Carthage Elementary and Sandhills Community College. Her old school teaching was firm but fair. She loved her students and wanted them to be their very best.
She was a longtime member of Bethlehem Baptist Church where she was director of Vacation Bible School and Director of Missions for many years. She truly loved church and serving in her community. Shirley also was a part of forming the Carthage Lions Club and served as Secretary.
She and her family enjoyed countless trips to Cherry Grove every summer with the Needhams. There are many fond memories of those trips. Shirley carried on her mothers tradition of being a great cook.
She was preceded in death by her husband Bobby Hooker; brothers James, Leon and Jerry Needham; brother in law Bud Cummings.
She is survived by: her daughter Kimberly Hooker; sisters Nancy Cummings, Maxine Needham, Virginia (Ginny) Harris and husband Steve; sister in law Marie Williamson Needham, Gearlene Hussey Needham, Wanda Brewer Needham and several beloved nieces and nephews.
Shirley was an outstanding aunt and great aunt. She always provided books for the children so they could learn to read.
The family would like to thank the staff at Southern Pines Gracious Living, Affordable Family Care and Legacy Heath Care for their support and care for Shirley.
Funeral services will be 3:00 PM Sunday at Bethlehem Baptist Church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends prior to the service starting at 2:00 PM.
Memorials may be made to: FirstHealth Hospice Foundation, 150 Applecross Road, Pinehurst, NC 28374.
Services are entrusted to Fry & Prickett Funeral Home.
