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Shirley Surles Howell Watson

August 22, 1933 ~ April 4, 2013

Shirley Howell Watson passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, April 5, 2013. She was born in Benson, NC on August 22, 1933 to Joseph Graham Surles and Hilda Brown Surles. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Robert Howell; her parents, Graham and Hilda Surles; and a brother, Richard Surles. Shirley was employed as the first female police officer by the Rocky Mount Police Department. She retired at 20 years of service as a Corporal. She was a member of Southside Baptist Church. Her favorite hobby was baking cakes for her family and friends. The family is grateful for the love and support shown by so many caring friends, neighbors, relatives and her church family. Shirley leaves to cherish her memory, her husband, Donald Watson of 30 years; one son, Robert Howell; two daughters, Debbie Winstead and her husband, Gary Hill, and Faye Evans and her husband, Jaycee; three grandchildren, Lindsey Winstead of Salisbury, NC, Jonathan Winstead of Rocky Mount and Kristie L. Howell of Nashville; one great-grandchild, David Parker of Nashville, NC; one brother, Joe Surles of Goldsboro, NC; one sister Jeane Wright of Houston, Texas; three step-children, Jane, Pam and Brian; and her beloved dog, Abby. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, April 9, 2013 at 2:00pm at Wheeler and Woodlief Funeral Home with Minister Harry Fowler officiating. The family will receive friends following the memorial service. Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made to Southside Baptist Church, 4948 Carter Road, Elm City, NC 27822. Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler and Woodlief Funeral Home, 1130 North Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share you memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com. Visitation Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services 1130 N. Winstead Ave. Rocky Mount, NC 27804 ID ) ); ?>"> --> 252-451-8800 --> | Tuesday 4/9, 2:45 pm Service Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services 1130 N. Winstead Ave. Rocky Mount, NC 27804 ID ) ); ?>"> --> 252-451-8800 --> | Tuesday 4/9, 2:00 pm

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  1. Shirley was loving Sister and caring Aunt. I lost my beloved wife and sister on the same day. My heart is breaking. My family and I will miss them both and will treasure the memories we had with them. Your Loving Brother, Joseph G. Surles, Jr. & Family

  2. Your with the Lord now no more pain you were there when my dad past years ago you were a sweet lady.And I thank you for that Annette Patterson.

  3. Joe I also wish to send my sympathies to you and your family for the loss of Becky. Two beautiful angels gone at the same time. I’m sure God has something BIG in store for them. Love Pam Howell Whitley

  4. Robert, Debbie, Faye and families I am so sorry for the loss of your mother. I feel that she was also a part of me and I have lost someone also. My thoughts and prayers are with you and if there is anything I can help with in any way please do not hesitate to let me know. I also wish to send my sympathies for the loss of your aunt on the same day. I have, do and always will continue to love all of you as family. May the peace of God be with you all. Love, Pam Howell Whitley

  5. Mama, you were a Great, Loving Mother and I will always hold your memory in my heart. We had our tough times but you were always there for me when I needed you. It broke my heart seeing you suffer like you did and not being able to do anything for you. I will miss seeing you and talking to you everyday but I know you are at peace now and finally at rest. I know I’ll see you again someday. Robert, Faye and I will miss our Sunday afternoons and all the delicious cakes you made for us. I promise to take care of Boots the best I can. Until we meet again. I love you Mama!


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