Shirley Schady is one of a kind(ness)

When I first met Shirley Schady at my new bank, I was immediately struck by her warm smile and her genuine kindness. I could tell she has an innate ability to make everyone around her feel valued and heard, whether it’s through a thoughtful compliment or simply taking the time to listen. So, I share her story with our readers.

Shirley is a Tennessee native, graduating from Clinton High School. While most people wind up in banking, Shirley remembers always wanting to be a “banker,” being hooked early on from her childhood trips to the bank with her parents. So, banking has been her calling for the last 27 years and FirstBank-Emory Road her home now and where I found her, welcoming customers by name with a genuine interest that cannot be feigned. That sincerity has translated into several customer service awards.

Shirley’s advice is to live by the Golden Rule and to put family first. Family is first for Shirley who has been married to her husband, Earl, for 34 years. They have two girls and eight grandchildren who she prioritizes time for enjoying their sports, birthdays, holidays and vacations. She cooks, gardens and I know she cans vegetables because she spent quality time telling me about a class in Halls she recommended.

Every time we get the opportunity to interact, I leave feeling uplifted. It’s a rare gift to meet someone who embodies kindness as not an act, but a way of life.

I was not surprised by her favorite quote: “Most importantly keep smiling. Because Life is a beautiful thing and there’s so much to smile about!”~Marilyn Monroe

All of us have a story and I want to tell yours! Send them to susan@knoxtntoday.com.