Shirley Ann Gude Edwards
Shirley Ann Gude was born November 11, 1946 to the late Andrew Jake and Eva Smith Gude in Shady Dale. She was the eldest daughter and fifth offspring of 12 from that union. Her first major accomplishment was becoming a mother to her one and only daughter Janice Renee Gude.
Though motherhood was difficult, Shirley did not let it stop her from accomplishing all of her goals she set before her. Her father’s love for books and knowledge equipped Shirley to excel in school where she graduated at the top of her class from Jasper County Training School in 1965.
From there, Shirley’s love for knowledge, cuisine, the arts, and travel grew and was seen through the eyes of everyone she touched throughout her life until the day she was called home on June 2, 2024.
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Shirley Ann continued her education at Clark Atlanta University where she majored in political science and philosophy. She then set off to New York University where she studied marketing and fashion merchandising at the Fashion Institute of New York. It was there in New York that her passion for theater and her artistic flair grew. From being a merchandiser for Bloomingdales to being cast in small plays across the state, there was nothing Ms. Shirley Ann could not do.
In the late 70s, Shirley set off to Houston where her passion for theater sky-rocketed. She was greeted by who would soon become her good friend Celeste Walker and they have been inseparable ever since. She was the vice president of Mountaintop Production as well as a producer and writer.
In 1976, Shirley Ann married (David Edwards) and her name became Shirley Ann Gude Edwards, SAGE for short and she had been known by that name ever since.
SAGE has lived and worked in some incredible places around the world from New York to California but what remained her true love is her beloved Shady Dale. Sage was an informed and engaged citizen and as such she was elected to the Shady Dale City Council and ran for Mayor Pro Tem for the city of Monticello.
Her entrepreneurial tendencies prompted her to start her own catering service and open the Sweet Spot on Monticello’s Square. Sage served as the director of the state sponsored Better Hometown Program from 2005-2009. It was Sage’s vision to birth the Red Clay Galleria & Cafe in Monticello to renew interest in downtown. A grant from the USDA funded her efforts and the galleria & cafe quickly became a go to place to meet, enjoy a fine meal, buy remarkable antiques and collectibles while supporting local vendors.
She furthered her interest in all things Monticello by working at the Chamber of Commerce to keep a pulse on the town she loved. Notably, SAGE actualized Bicentennial Celebration, the Hot Air Balloon & Jazz Fest, the ever popular “My Cousin Vinny” skit, and the Children’s Christmas Parade. A collaborative effort with the Extensive Service began and continues the popular Market on the Square.
In recognition of her contributions and accomplishments to the city of Monticello, a brick in her honor is permanently on display in the window of the Chamber she served.
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SAGE not only shined brightly in her professional career but she was a fun-loving, Scrabble™ winning wordsmith, food connoisseur, jazz enthusiast and more. Best of all, she was an esteemed and cherished mother, granny, sister, aunt, and friend who adored family gatherings where her cooking prowess was unmatched. She lived well and was well-loved to the end.
Shirley Ann Gude Edwards (SAGE) was preceded in death by one brother (Jim), three nephews, and two sisters-in-law. She leaves to honor her memories her beloved daughter, Janice Renee; granddaughter, Morgan Jakeva; seven brothers; Willie, Oliver (OC), Andrew (Carrie), Charles (Eula), John, James, and Phillip; four sisters; Inez Dearro, Amy, Eva, and Marilyn; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, friends and community.