Rayburn Shirley

Rayburn "Ray" Shirley, 74, beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather and Brother, was called to his eternal resting place on April 17, 2020. He was born in Tuscaloosa, AL to Beuford and Mildred Shirley. He is preceded in death by his parents; daughter Rachel Leigh and daughter-in-law Susan Wellbaum Shirley. After attending Holt High School, Ray enlisted in the United States Navy where he served for 6 years. A large portion of his service was spent on the Pacific Fleet USS Klondike. Ray retired from the American Cast Iron Pipe Company after 38 years of working as a Machinist. During this time he made many long-lasting friendships. Ray had many interests- including fishing, hunting, and watching Alabama football. His greatest interest, however, was spending time with his large extended family and especially his grandchildren. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Gloria Bryan Shirley; his sons Bryan and Joe (Erin); grandchildren Ben, Emma and Connor. Ray is also survived by his 5 siblings, Sylvia (Chester) Bell, Beuford Shirley, John (Pamela) Shirley, Molly Tant and Paul (Sharon) Shirley. A private burial will be held on Friday, April 24 at The Shirley Cemetery in Old Mount Hebron, Alabama with a Celebration of Life to be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice.