Obituary of Shirley Overstreet Hensley

Shirley Overstreet Hensley, 76, of Bedford passed away at home on Monday, January 16, 2023, in the presence and care of her loved ones. She fought a courageous five-month battle with cancer. She was born October 21, 1946, in Bedford, VA. A daughter of the late Alonzi Overstreet and Gracie Bell Overstreet. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings, James Overstreet, Lettie Robertson, Ethel Hall, Mary Bouton, and her beloved dog, Roxy.

Shirley was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend. She had a heart of gold and a spine of steel, always putting the needs of her family and others first. Shirley was retired from Bedford County Public Schools, having worked many years at Jefferson Forest High School and later retiring from Big Island Elementary School. She was well known for her amazing cooking. After retirement, she worked part time at Campbells Rest Home in Bedford, as well as taking care of elderly patients in the community. She had a natural gift when it came to caring for these patients and loved them as if they were her own family.

Shirley is survived by her husband of 60 years, Clyde M. Hensley; Her sons, Melvin Hensley, Barry Hensley (Darlene); daughter, Sharon Hensley; grandchildren, BJ Hensley (Katie), Matthew Hensley (Hailey), Houston Hensley (Taylor), Cassidy Hensley, Brandon DeWitt (Lisa), and seven great-grandchildren; her sisters, Laura O. Tweedy, Carolyn Anderson and Debbie McKinney (Willie).

Shirley requested to be cremated with no service.

The family requests that those wishing to make memorials to please consider Ebenezer United Methodist Church, 1118 Ebenezer Road, Bedford, VA 24523.

Due to illnesses going around and the health issues of Clyde, the family requests no visitors at the home during this time. They would like to say THANK YOU to everyone who brought food, flowers, cards, many needed prayers and all acts of kindness shown over the past five months. Shirley was SO grateful to each of you. Thank you to Bedford Hospice, especially nurse Stephanie, Trinda and Ellen for their care and support.

To send condolences online please visit updikefuneralhome.com

Arrangements are being handled by Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bedford.