Shirley Jean Blanton Garrett

It is with sadness and celebration that we announce the passing of Shirley Jean Blanton Garrett, a remarkable woman who lived a life filled with perseverance, devotion, and love. Born in Richmond, Virginia, on February 18, 1928, Shirley passed away peacefully at her home on July 22, 2025.

Raised during the Great Depression by several caring families-including her grandmother in Fighting Creek, Powhatan; the Agnews in Roanoke, VA; and her Aunt and Uncle Joyce and Raymond Eubank in Hopewell, VA-Shirley developed a deep sense of resilience, determination, and family commitment. These early years forged a strong woman who would go on to inspire all who knew her.

After sending her eldest daughter to college, Shirley worked in the accounting department at Fort Lee, VA (U.S. Army) for over 25 years. Once she and her husband retired to Nags Head, NC, she served her OBX community as a tax preparer with H&R Block, continuing well into her 80s.

Shirley was the heart of her home and the force behind ensuring her daughters took advantage of every opportunity. She often stayed up all night at her sewing machine, sewing dresses for her daughters-everything from Easter outfits to wedding gowns, a reflection of her commitment as a mother and selfless love for her girls.

She is survived by her loving family: daughters Gwyn Garrett, Becky Lofton, and Laura Lee Garrett and her husband, John Vollino; grandchildren Mary Garrett Turner and her husband Jason Minard, John Slator Turner IV, Brian Turner, Jesse DeSanto and his wife Tracey DeSanto, Berkley Vollino, and Lt. Garrett Vollino; along with great-grandchildren Virginia Jean, Allen, and Georgia. Lastly, she is survived by her best friend, Pierre, her French Poodle.

Shirley was predeceased by her beloved husband, Allen Kenneth Garrett, her high school sweetheart and partner of over 60 years, and her son-in-law, Tommy DeSanto.

A proud University of Virginia Cavaliers fan, Shirley deeply believed in education, and despite adversity, sought opportunities to take on-going university-level classes throughout her adult life. She was an avid reader, devouring novels and The Virginian-Pilot from cover to cover until her last days. Shirley was also a Master Gardener with the Master Gardeners of Dare County. She delighted in growing plants from simple cuttings, and her plants, like her life, were tended to with wonder, intellect, and love.

Shirley's greatest joy was being surrounded by her family. Her Outer Banks home became a cherished gathering place. Her spirit of generosity, determination, and warmth lives on in all who knew her.

A visitation for Shirley will be held on August 4, 2025, from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM at Twiford Funeral Homes, LLC, Manteo, NC. A funeral service will be held on August 5, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Outer Banks Presbyterian Church with a reception to follow. Her final resting place will be Bermuda Memorial Park, Chester, VA with a burial service to be held on August 7, 2025, at 12:00 PM.

In her honor, donations can be made to Outer Banks Presbyterian Church, 907 S. Croatan Hwy, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948.

Shirley Garrett was a woman of strength and deep love. Her legacy will forever be one of resilience, generosity, and devotion to family and her church. She will be dearly missed.

Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is serving the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.