Shirley Keith

Shirley Dean Keith, 90, of Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2026, surrounded by her loving daughters, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and sisters. She was welcomed into the arms of her Lord and reunited with her beloved husband, Tommy.

Born on January 30, 1936, in Wake County, Shirley was the daughter of the late Charlie L. Dean and Emily H. Dean. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Tommy S. Keith; her daughter, Karen Keith Stewart; her brothers, Charlie L. Dean Jr. and Jimmy Dean; and brother- in-law, Bobby Hamilton.

Shirley found her greatest joy in her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend who treasured every moment spent with those she loved. Her family was her pride and joy, and the legacy of her love will live on through each of them.

She leaves behind her daughters, Diane Keith Mauldin and her husband, Wayne, of Fuquay-Varina, and Kathy Keith Swan and her husband, Tommy, of Buies Creek. She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren: Mallory Mauldin Goodnight and her husband, Chad; Alan Swan; Ally Swan Barefoot and her husband, Reid; Austin Swan; Taylor Stewart Johnson and her husband, Mason; and Thomas Stewart and his girlfriend, Maureen Fitts. Her beloved great-grandchildren include Graysen Goodnight, Ethan Goodnight, and Lily Johnson.

Shirley is also survived by her loving sisters, Billie Dean Hamilton and Faye Dean Washington and her husband, Pete, as well as many treasured nieces, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives she touched throughout the years.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, July 31, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Bryan-Lee Funeral Home, 300 E. McIver Street, Angier, North Carolina. The family will receive friends prior to the service on Friday from 2:45 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. at the funeral home.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff of Transitions LifeCare, as well as to the many family members and friends who offered support during this time. Your prayers, visits, flowers, cards, phone calls, and countless expressions of love and kindness provided great comfort and were deeply appreciated.