Shirley Klebs, 81, of Kingsland passed away Oct. 18, 2021, at her residence in Kingsland.
Shirley was born Jan. 26, 1940, in Albany to Rev. James Hampton Wescott and Ethel Mae Harp. She began nursing school at the age of 40, and was a registered nurse with Lake View Hospital. Coming from Orange Park, Florida, she had lived in Kingsland since 2006, and was a member of First Baptist Church of Kingsland. She was an avid reader, enjoyed collecting Civil War memorabilia, loved to travel all over and enjoyed history and fine art. She loved her grandchildren, and loved taking cruises with her family. Her grandson Jay was her heart, and he loved his Mimi.
Survivors include her children, David L. Bates Jr. of Kingsland, Angela Renee Howell (Hamp) of Kingsland and James Arthur Bates (Mindy) of Hahira, grandchildren, David L. Bates III, Katie Bates and Dr. Tori Bates, and a great grandson, Caleb Howell. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Richard W. Klebs, siblings, Marieolla Preachers, Jimmy Westcott, Bobby Westcott, and a grandson, Jay Howell.
A visitation for family and friends will be held 5-6 p.m., with funeral services to follow at 6, on Friday, Oct. 29 at Allison Memorial Chapel, with Dr. Brian Parker and Dr. Morris Harp officiating. A private burial will be held at Zion Methodist Church Cemetery. Honorary pallbearers will be the Kingsland Woman's Club.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are requested to Disabled American Veterans.
Allison Memorial Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.