Shirley Newton Loving

Shirley Newton Loving, born June 2, 1935, in Newport News, Virginia, was the cherished daughter of the late Carl Newton and Ruby Newton. Shirley's formative years were spent in Lynchburg and Wylliesburg, Virginia, where she also resided during her married life. Life on Clifton Street always sounded like an adventure, and she later returned to Wylliesburg to live in the Victorian-style dream house she helped design. This last home, with its architecture and high ceilings, was chosen partly for its resemblance to the beautiful farm house she had to leave in her later years due to illness.

Shirley passed away peacefully on Friday, July 4th, 2025, at her home.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Gilmer Loving, and her two brothers, Jim Newton and Bob Newton.

She is survived by her loving children, Glenn Loving of Madison Heights, Virginia, and Roger Loving of Raleigh, North Carolina, her sister, Catherine Newton, and her two grandchildren, Aaron G. Loving and AnnMarie Page Loving.

A memorial service will be held to celebrate Shirley's life at 1:00 p.m., Friday, July 11th, 2025, at Whitten Monelison Chapel.

Shirley will be remembered foremost for her love of all creatures, big and small. She adored her animals, and they in turn adored her. When she moved to "the country" in Wylliesburg, she had Gilmer create a carved wooden sign for the edge of her property that proclaimed: "I love animals and I can't help it. Please respect this alleged character flaw and don't hunt on this property. Shirley Newton Loving." This sign was well-known and respected throughout the town. Shirley was also a phenomenal mother and grandmother, treating all her kin with kindness and love. She possessed a skilled green thumb, maintaining a vibrant menagerie of plants both indoors and out. At Christmastime, her decorations transformed her home into a storybook setting. A devoted homemaker, she always kept a beautifully decorated and welcoming home. Her laugh and her songs will be dearly missed and cherished in our memories.

"We trust her soul to Jesus."