Shirley Priscilla Gesell, born January 6, 1955, in Detroit, Michigan, passed away peacefully on May 13, 2025, in Belton, South Carolina, at the age of 70. Her life was one marked by quiet strength, enduring love, and unwavering devotion to family.
Shirley was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 40 years, Ralf Uwe Gesell; her parents, Millard Broughton and Dimple Shirley Jean Parris; and her cherished daughter, Leanna Jean Garland.
Her legacy continues through her children: Sammy Garland, Allen Gesell, Gary Garland, and Leanna Day. She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Braylen Day, Johnny Day, Rylen Gesell, Izabella Gesell, Jeremy Gesell, Savannah Garland, Rachaell Garland, Page Garland, Adalia Garland, Nadia Garland, and Ava Garland; and a loving great-grandmother to Kingsland Cade-Garland, Aurora Cade-Garland, and Anova Cade-Garland.
She is also survived by her siblings Anita Broughton, Beverly Johnson, Johnny Broughton, Paul Broughton, and Bobby Broughton, who shared in her journey and witnessed firsthand her remarkable resilience and compassionate spirit.
To describe Shirley is to attempt the impossible. How do you say goodbye to someone who was so much to so many? She was brave, kind, and endlessly loving. Life tested her again and again, placing hardships in her path that would have broken most. But Shirley never let struggle define her—she faced every trial with dignity, patience, and unshakeable grace. Her generosity of spirit, her forgiving heart, and her steadfast love were the gifts she gave freely to everyone around her.
Though her life was not without sorrow, Shirley created love wherever she went. She gave of herself until the very end, leaving behind a legacy not just of family, but of hope, compassion, and quiet strength. Her absence leaves a void that words cannot fill, but the love she gave remains—undiminished and eternal.
A memorial service will be held to honor Shirley’s life, where family and friends will gather to celebrate the woman who held them all together. Details will be announced soon.
She deserved more peace, more rest—but now, may she finally have it. Shirley Priscilla Gesell will be missed beyond measure and loved beyond words.
The Sosebee Mortuary and Crematory is assisting the family with arrangements.
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