Shirley Luckett

Shirley Ann Tate Luckett, born September 4, 1935 in East Stone Gap, VA, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2024 in Franklin, TN, at the age of 89. As a beloved high school math teacher, Shirley lived a life filled with passion, dedication, and a profound love for her family. 

Shirley is preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Brady Walton Luckett; mother, Mary Pauline Dixon Tate; father, Kyle Wentz Tate; brother, Ted Philman Tate (Milly); brothers-in-law, James Dorris Luckett and Conrad Christopher Fetcher. 

Shirley is survived by her only son, Phil James Luckett (Robbie); grandson, Phillip Brandon Luckett (Hilary) and three great grandchildren, Brady Daniel, Case Tatum, and Atlee James; and granddaughter, Lindsay June Luckett. Surviving brothers, Kyle Wentz Tate, Jr. and Michael James Tate (Toria). Surviving sisters, Billie Tate Fetcher, Judy Tate Riggs, Duane Tate Akridge (Joseph “Buzzy”) and sister-in-law, Joan Mrzena Luckett. 

A proud graduate of Radford College in Virginia, Shirley earned her bachelor's degree in chemistry before pursuing her master's degree in teaching at Middle Tennessee State University. She brought her academic excellence to life as a teacher at Hillwood High School, where she inspired students with her love for mathematics. Her approachable attitude and unwavering support made her not just a teacher, but a mentor to all who walked through her doors.

In addition to her academic pursuits, Shirley was a remarkable high school athlete, playing basketball in her younger years. Her love for sports continued throughout her life, as she enjoyed watching her husband, Brady, coach, and son, Phil, play high school football. She cheered passionately for her favorite basketball and football teams at the University of Tennessee.

Shirley cherished her time working on the cattle and pig farm alongside her husband, Brady, in Hickman and Dickson County. Those early mornings and long days spent caring for the animals enriched her companionship with her son and grandchildren. Together they cultivated a life filled with love, laughter, and memories through the hard work that comes from tending to a farm.

Shirley and Brady spent their retirement years traveling. Their favorite destination was Las Vegas, where they spent many fun hours playing slot machines and dice games. 

Beyond the classroom, Shirley found joy in the simple pleasure of making her family’s favorite desserts, including her famous jello pretzel salad and Scotcharoos. 

As we remember Shirley, let us celebrate her spirit, her dedication to education, and her love for those who were fortunate enough to know her. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness and will be deeply missed.