Amy Payne Shirley, age 81, of Dahlonega, GA passed away Saturday, July 5, 2014 at Northeast GA Medical Center following an extended illness. Amy was born and raised in Lavonia, GA before moving to Lumpkin County in 1991. She was a homemaker who was an artist as well as an avid gardener. She was of the Presbyterian faith. The daughter of the late Carl and Dorcas Payne, Amy was also preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, William H. "Bill" Shirley; sisters, Shirley Payne Thomas, and Charlotte Payne. She is survived by her daughter, Carla Shirley Long, Franklin, TN; daughter and son-in-law, Julie Shirley Patty and Ken Patty, Sugar Hill, GA; brother, Marshall Payne, Lavonia, GA; sister and brother-in-law, June and Ben Dowis, Oakwood, GA; sister, Linda Payne, Ponte Vedra, FL; and grandchildren, Kaylin Long, Taylor Long, and Connor Patty. Several nieces and nephews also survive. A memorial service for Amy will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be made at www.banisterfuneralhome.net. Banister Funeral Home of Dahlonega is in charge of the arrangements.