JACKSON, Tenn. — Iva Shirley Beaver Dyer, 91, of Jackson, Tenn., passed away peacefully on June 16, 2025, at The Willows.
Born on July 11, 1933, in Tipton County, she was the daughter of the late Gordon and Electa Smith Beaver. A lifelong learner and devoted public servant, Shirley began college at 16 and earned her degree from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. She worked as a county extension agent, florist, with the Girl Scouts, and was a business owner.
Shirley spent nearly 40 years in Clinton, where she served on the county 4-H board and led community programs through the Home Extension Service. Known for her adventurous spirit, she took flying lessons, considered joining the Peace Corps, and loved fast driving. She was an avid Sudoku solver, passionate gardener, natural health advocate, and deeply devoted mother and grandmother.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Reginal Leon Dyer, and sister, Lenvil Oneda Ledbetter.
She is survived by her daughter, Carmeda Lynne (Joey) Keen; granddaughter, Kendall Keen; sister, Carmen Theo Harchfield; brother, Lemuel Gordon Beaver; and step-children: David Dyer, Sheila Dyer Leverson, Phillip Dyer.
Visitation will be held Friday, June 20, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Arrington Funeral Directors, Jackson, Tenn., with the funeral service immediately following at 1 p.m., officiated by Dr. Todd Brady. Interment will be at the Mt. Zion Cemetery in Decatur County, Tenn.
