Shirley Leonard Fisher Adams

Shirley Leonard Fisher Adams, 96, a beloved matriarch and pillar of her family, was called home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, January 27, 2026 at the Hospice Home surrounded by her loving family. She was born on July 26, 1929 in Alamance County, to the late Gurney Lewis Leonard and Rosa Zena Rhew Leonard.

Her relationships defined her life. She was a devoted wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother (MawMaw), aunt, relative, and friend. Spending time with her loved ones brought her the greatest joy. She was an artful storyteller, and we all spent hours engaged and laughing with the family stories that she would share. She enjoyed putting puzzles together with her dear friend, Carol. She grew up in a large, loving family who had the most beautiful respect for each other and were always there for each other.

Shirley was a cherished lifelong member of Glen Hope Baptist Church, where she served as a former Sunday School teacher and was a steadfast presence in the Guiding Light Sunday School Class. Her commitment to her faith was evident in everything she did. The joy of her strong faith in God guided her through the tough times and enabled her to be a witness to everyone she met.

Surrounded by her loving family in her final moments, Shirley leaves behind a legacy of love and faith that will resonate for generations to come. She is survived by; her loving son, Gary Fisher; her devoted daughter, Karen Sharpe (Ron); her stepson, Steve Adams (Teri); grandchildren; Mallory Sharpe, Grant Sharpe, Carla Crouse (Danny), Samantha Forman (Jullian), Brandy Price (Tim), Leslie Honeycutt, Lynsey Koury (Carson) and Lori Beth Adams. She had 14 adoring great-grandchildren, a large loving extended family and her adopted family Drs Hillary and Paul Carroll, and their children, Emily Videtto (Ashley) and Kathryn Finney (James).

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband of 40 years, James Franklin "Bud" Adams; her siblings, Russell Leonard, Bernest Leonard, Odis Leonard, Bobby Leonard, Jessie Wood, Mildred McAdams, Hilda Jones and June Dare; and her daughter-in-law, Joni Fisher.

Shirley Adams will be remembered not only for her gentle spirit and Christian faith but also for the countless lives she touched with her love and kindness. She leaves behind a legacy rich in love, faith in God, and a family that will honor her memory in their hearts.

The funeral service to celebrate Shirley’s life will be held 2:00 pm, 7th day, February, 2026 at Glen Hope Baptist Church by Rev. Lewis Baber and Rev. Bob Stephenson, with the burial to follow at Pine Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 12:30 to 1:45 prior to the service at the church.

Memorials may be made to Glen Hope Baptist Church, 911 North Ave., Burlington, NC 27217. You may send condolences to the family online at www.lowefuneralhome.com