Shirley Buchanan Taff

Shirley Buchanan Taff, 73, widow of the late Richard E. Taff, passed away on Saturday, February 1, 2025. Born in Travelers Rest, she was a daughter of the late Dayton and Mary Ann Walters Buchanan. Shirley was a retired cross country truck driver. She was a member of Travelers Rest Church of God and with an unparalleled servant’s heart, gave of her time to various church ministries with a passion for feeding others in need through Angel Food Ministries. Remembered for her well-known “Shirley Cakes”, she brought joy to family gatherings, church events, weddings, and celebrations with more than just dessert; they were symbols of love, patience, and tradition, each one carried her signature touch and an extra helping of love. Beyond the kitchen, Shirley found peace by the water. She had a gift for fishing, often outlasting even the most seasoned anglers with her quiet patience and skill. Whether teaching her grandchildren how to bait a hook or simply enjoying the calm of a quiet morning on the lake, she embraced the simple joys of life. Her greatest joy, however, was caring for others. Her home was a haven, her hands always busy helping, and her heart always open to anyone in need. She lived a life of true service, putting others before herself without a second thought. Surviving are: daughter Annette Hightower; son Brian Hightower (Jennifer) and son, Chris Taff (Michelle); brother: John Buchanan (Judy); sister: Connie Williams (Don); eight grandchildren: Paige Henson, Alexandria Henson (Courtney), Michaela Henson, Kelsey Kenyon (Nick), Jackson Hightower, Grayson Hightower, Amanda Taff and Jake Taff; and five great-grandchildren: Caroline Lane, Sky and Violet West, and Leighton and Briggs Kenyon, many beloved nieces and nephews, and her furry four legged companion, Sadie. Along with her parents and husband, she was predeceased by her brother Mark Buchanan, and sons Rick and Jerry Taff. The family will receive friends Tuesday afternoon from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Travelers Rest Church of God. Funeral services will follow at 2:15 p.m. in the Church Sanctuary. The family welcomes guests to wear cowboy boots in honor of Shirley. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.thehowzemortuary.com The Howze Mortuary, Travelers Rest, is in charge of the arrangements. (864)834-8051.

Shirley Buchanan Taff

June 15, 1951 - February 1, 2025