Shirley Ann Berrong, 88, originally from Maryville, TN, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2026.

Beyond her deepest love—her family—Shirley found pure delight in life’s vibrant exchanges, from lively conversations to the simple thrill of a new discovery on a department store shelf. Even after moving to Georgia in 2024 to make her home with her daughter’s family, her timeless elegance and friendly spirit lingered in the hearts of those back home, where familiar voices from her favorite shops still called just to share word of new arrivals and special finds.

A proud graduate of Everett High School’s Class of 1956, Shirley went on to graduate from Carson Newman University, dedicating over three decades to shaping young minds as a beloved teacher of typing and general business in the Blount County school system. For many decades, her faith found a home at Everett Hills Baptist Church, anchoring her through life’s changing seasons.

Beside her devoted husband, Bob Berrong—a legendary coach in Blount County—Shirley was the heartbeat of the sidelines. Whether under the lights of a football field, the echo of a gymnasium, or a sunny baseball diamond, she was forever his steadfast and most passionate cheerleader.

To her family, Shirley was a constant reservoir of love, delighting in every detail of their lives and endlessly doting on each generation. She was reunited in peace with her parents, John and Elizabeth Peterson, and her cherished husband, Bob.

Her grace and devotion live on through her brother, Don Peterson (Sherry); her daughter, Mindy Berrong Guilotte (David); the two grandchildren who knew her as Mimi, Savannah and Cooper; and her great-grandchild, Bentley.

Family and friends are invited to join the visitation which will take place on Friday, October 16th from 10:30am to 11:45am at Smith's Mortuary, followed by a Burial Service at Grandview Cemetery, 2304 Tuckaleechee Pike, Maryville, Tennessee 37803. All whose lives were touched by Shirley are welcome to join.

In honor of her generous spirit, the family gently requests that memorial donations be made to the Gideon Bible Foundation or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Condolences may be shared at Smith Funeral and Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com.