Shirley Friend
March 1, 1937 – October 25, 2026 (Age 89)
Shirley Ann Friend, 89, of Concord, North Carolina, was born March 1, 1937, in Canton, Ohio, and passed away October 25, 2026; she passed peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family. Shirley will be remembered with deep respect and abiding gratitude for a life marked by kindness, thoughtfulness, and a generous devotion to others.
For many years, Shirley worked as a realtor, serving others with diligence and care. In both her professional life and her personal life, she carried herself with a loving attentiveness—listening closely, offering help readily, and showing up in ways that made people feel supported and valued.
Shirley found joy in the rhythms of everyday life. She loved baking cookies, working on puzzles, reading, going to the beach, participating in church activities, and playing games with those she loved. These were not merely pastimes to her, but expressions of the warmth she brought into a room and the supportive presence she offered to family and friends.
A significant part of her life was her faith- Shirley was a member of Hickory Grove Baptist Church, where she was deeply engaged for 60 years, until she was no longer able to drive. Most recently, she was a member of 1st Baptist Church of Midland. Her commitment reflected a life oriented toward service, community, and enduring care for others.
Shirley will be lovingly remembered for the nourishing meals she brought to anyone who was sick or in need—an act of generosity that spoke as clearly as words ever could. She was also the biggest cheerleader and supporter of her family, offering encouragement with a steady heart and a thoughtful spirit that will be deeply missed.
Shirley is survived by her children, Connie Lankford (Randy), Linda Biggers (Chris), and JD Friend Jr. (Pam); her grandchildren Brandon, Christin, Travis (Lankford), Christopher, Cari, Casey (Biggers), and JD Friend III (Friend); and by her 14 great grandchildren.
Visitation will be held at Hickory Grove Baptist Church (Harris Campus), 7200 E W.T. Harris Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28215, on October 28, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.
A Funeral Service will be held at Hickory Grove Baptist Church (Harris Campus), 7200 E W.T. Harris Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28215, on October 28, 2026, at 11:00 am.
A Committal Service will take place at Sunset Memory Gardens, 8901 Lawyers Rd, Mint Hill, NC 28227, on October 28, 2026.