Shirley Virginia Atkins Baker went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Tuesday January 26, 2021 at Hidden Springs Senior Living in Bentonville, Virginia. Her husband Ott was holding her hand and she was surrounded by those who loved her.

A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, February 2, 2021 at 11:00am at Flint Hill Cemetery with Dr. Wayne Woodard of Bentonville Baptist Church officiating. Pallbearers will be: Joe Hall, Chris Manuel, Brady Manuel, Rex Andrews, Ray Andrews, Ricky Baker, Tommy Tharpe, Leon Jenkins, Mike Welch and Honorary Pallbearer Ashby Crowder.

Shirley was born at home in Flint Hill, Virginia on October 25, 1938, the daughter of the late Luther Atkins and Dorothy Sisk Atkins. She attended Rappahannock County Schools, graduating in 1956.

Shirley married the love of her life, Osbourn Ott Baker on July 20, 1957. They started out their married life living in Arlington, Virginia for a couple of years before moving to Browntown. In 1970, they built “Farriers Knob”, their dream home, and lived there for 50 years. Though they were never blessed with children of their own, they had a very special relationship with Chris Manuel, who they thought of as their son.

Shirley was a woman of deep faith, a true Prayer Warrior. She was a member of Bentonville Baptist Church, where she sang in the choir and served on different committees. The “Hospitality Committee” described her so well! She was always so glad to see you and never wanted you to leave! She was a very talented cook and seamstress – she could do it all, from wedding gowns to crocheting baby blankets to the most beautiful quilts!! Shirley and Ott also loved square dancing. They were members of the “Rivermont Ramblers” for many years.

Shirley started her career working at the Pentagon. She worked for the Virginia Department of Corrections in Probation and Parole. She retired after 30 years of service. Retirement didn’t last long. She went to work in the Warren County Voter Registrar’s office for another seven years.

Shirley is survived by her husband of 63 years, Ott Baker, her sisters Violet McInturff and Dorothy Jenkins (Tippy) and brother-in-law Jesse Owens, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her sisters Margaret Jenkins, Bobbie Owens and Bernice Welch.

The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to the staff of Hidden Springs Senior Living, to Dr. Thomas Ball and Katie Winter, and to the staff of Blue Ridge Hospice. These words come from the bottom of our hearts. Shirley was shown so much love!

Due to Covid-19, the family asks that you wear your masks and follow the safe distance protocols.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested that memorial contributions may be made to the following:
Bentonville Baptist Church, Attn: Treasurer, Linda Fuller, 1479 Bentonville Rd., Bentonville VA 22610 or to the Humane Society of Warren County, 1245 Progress Drive, Front Royal, VA 22630.