Obituaries

Shirley Barker Smith, 74; Known as 'Gram'

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Shirley Barker Smith, 74, a Duluth native, passed away on Oct. 20, according to a funeral notice.

Known as "Gram" to granchildren, Smith was a Duluth High grad who lived in Suwanee. She became a substitute teacher in the Gwinnett County system after retiring from Georgia-Pacific in 2001.

She treasured the relationships she formed with faculty and students, especially those at Berkeley Lake Elementary, according to the online obituary.

Also, she was a member of Johns Creek Baptist Church.

According to the obituary:

"Her passion and gift was music and singing.  She sang in many choirs and was asked to perform solos in church, weddings, and for special occasions. ..."

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, Oct. 23, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Bill Head Funeral Homes and Crematory Duluth Chapel 770-476-2535.

Other details can be found on the funeral home website.

-- What are your memories of Shirley Barker Smith? Tell us in the comments below.




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