Marie Shirley Binder passed away peacefully on July 4th, 2026.
She was known for her deviled eggs, welcoming smile, and embracing warmth. She lived a full 87 years with a tenacious devotion to God, her family, and friends.
Left behind to treasure her memories are her husband of 63 years, Frederick (Fred) Henry Binder and two sons, Frederick (Fred) Henry Binder, Jr. and George O’Neal (Neal) Binder. Marie always thought of Neal’s wife, Amy, as one of her own children.
Born on March 8th, 1939, and raised in Douglas, Georgia, Marie was the only child of George Washington Shirley and Marie Wing Shirley. Growing up, she labelled herself a “tomboy” and enjoyed building forts and playing baseball and basketball. Along with her childhood playmates, her classmates at Coffee County High School remain lifelong friends.
As an avid planner, a persistent organizer, and joiner of people, Marie was perfect for any role involving leadership. At the University of Georgia, after pledging AOPi, she naturally became their president. She was recognized by Who’s Who Among College Students and participated in Women’s Student Government. After receiving a bachelor’s degree in home economics, she enrolled at The University of Tennessee where she earned a master’s in early childhood development.
As a young bride, Marie moved with Fred to Japan for his three-year stint with the Navy. In Japan, she immersed herself in the native culture, learning how to arrange flowers and craft traditional dolls. It was there she became a new mother to her first-born son. The friendships she made in Japan endured for the duration of her life in a steady exchange of gifts, visits, and correspondence.
In addition to being a wife and mother, Marie was very involved in her church, First Baptist of Greensboro. She was a devoted Sunday School teacher to second graders, many of whom still cherish those times spent learning about the Bible. She was ordained as a deacon and was dedicated to the Women’s Missionary Union and Mobile Meals program.
As an active member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Marie enjoyed dedicating her time to charitable endeavors. She and Fred were both enthusiastic growers of camellias and spearheaded the creation of the Greensboro Triad Camellia Club. She spread joy by delivering fresh cut camellias to her friends and the homebound.
Marie was a collector of friendships and had friends in multiple circles. She avidly kept in touch with her friends and family through her pipeline of cards, phone calls and visits. She cherished her vast photo album collection where she could revisit times spent.
Visitation was held at Hanes Lineberry Funeral Home on Tuesday, July 7th at 2:00 with the service following at 3:00pm in their chapel. A reception was held immediately following the service. Marie will be laid to rest beside her parents in Douglas, Georgia.
The interment will take place on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at 11:00am, at the Douglas City Cemetery in Douglas, GA.
The family would like to extend our most sincere and humble appreciation to the hands and hearts at Moses Cone Hospital and Beacon Place who assisted Marie in her passing.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Baptist Children’s Homes of North Carolina: 204 Idol Street, Thomasville, NC 27360