Shirley Beaver McCall

Shirley Jean Beaver, lovingly known by many as “Goose,” passed away peacefully in her sleep on Wednesday, July 9th, 2025, at the age of 90. Born on January 14, 1935, in Baltimore, Maryland, to Lula and Clifford Beaver, Shirley grew up in China Grove, North Carolina—just two doors down from the Methodist church and around the corner from her beloved grandmother, “Little Mama.”

Raised alongside her younger brother Gary by their mother Lula, Shirley learned early the strength and resilience that would define her life. She gave her heart to the Lord in elementary school and was shaped by the loving guidance of her aunt and her faith community. She enjoyed sports in high school, worked the lunch counter at the local drugstore, and loved dances, fancy dresses, and summer church camps at Lake Norman. In later years, she proudly reminisced about being crowned “Miss China Grove.”

Shirley worked in a cotton mill to save for college and earned a degree in Christian Education from Pfeiffer College. There, fate and family connections led her to meet her future husband. Following their marriage, the Navy took them many places—Maryland, Rhode Island, the Carolinas—and brought four daughters into the world, each in a different place, including one born in the back seat of a car. Though their marriage ended after 25 years, Shirley's affection and respect for her husband never faded.

Wherever the Navy sent them, Shirley built a home filled with love and warmth. She supported other Navy wives, volunteered in her girls’ schools, and opened her door and heart to many. She was “Mom” to her daughters’ friends and a welcome presence in the community. When her husband was stationed at the U.S. Naval Academy, their home was a gathering place for young cadets and their dates during holidays and spring formal.

Shirley was crafty and creative—sewing clothes, crafting Cinderella birthday cakes, diving into ceramics, decoupage, and of course, flower arrangements. Setting up altar displays and themed potluck tables at church brought her joy. After moving to San Diego, she found her spiritual home at North Clairemont United Methodist Church, where she served in many roles: Sunday school coordinator, wedding planner, church secretary, and VBS leader. Eventually, she adopted a quiet seat in the back pew, where family often joined her on Christmas Eve.

Becoming a grandmother brought new joy to Shirley's life. Goose, as she was affectionately known, loved her grandkids with all her heart—whether they were living with her or visiting, their presence filled her home with laughter, noise, and purpose. With the arrival of great-grandchildren—BellaRose, Rachel, Cadence, Sebastian, Chase, Lily, Marisela, and Hailey—her world grew even richer. Though she had slowed down physically, she always had room heart.

One of her favorite memories was a trip to Hawaii; even small joys like bean and cheese burritos, cheesecake, or surprise visits made her feel spoiled. After a fall made stairs difficult, her daughters and Robert lovingly transformed a downstairs room into what she called her "mansion"—new paint, furniture, flooring, and all. That space became a place of comfort and love.

In her final years at Belmont Village, Shirley had a cozy apartment, frequent visits from family, and continued to receive the love and care she had so often given. Her days grew quieter, and as the rhythm of her life slowed, she left this world as gently as she lived—with grace, surrounded by love, and wrapped in prayer.

Shirley, Mom, Grandma, Goose—you taught us the power of faith, family, and fierce love. You gave generously, laughed often, and always made room for one more at the table. We will miss your stories, your strength, and your hugs, but we carry you with us—in our hearts, our memories, and in all the ways we love each other.

Rest well, Goose. You were deeply loved, and you loved deeply. That runs in the family.