Beverly Ann (Washington) Shimkus passed away peacefully in her home on November 27th, 2021. She was born in Savannah on November 14, 1939 to Alma Elizabeth (Platt) Washington and Hammond Willingham Washington. She graduated from Savannah High School in 1957 and spent her undergraduate college years as a Pi Beta Phi at the University of Georgia where she studied English.

Returning to Savannah after college, she taught English at Jenkins High School and went on to marry James Robert Shimkus. The young couple moved to North Carolina in the sixties, where Beverly fell in love with the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She began her studies in education there and was forever a proud Tar Heel alumna. 

Continuing her journey in life and in education, she returned to the University of Georgia where she earned a Master of Education (MEd) in 1976 and a Specialist in Education (EdS) degree in 1979, while starting a family by welcoming two children, James Hammond Shimkus and Elizabeth Sharon Shimkus.

After settling back in Savannah in the early 80s, Beverly poured her heart into her family and her work. She took on the role as library and media specialist at her alma mater, Savannah High, and was there to transition the library from the old building on Washington Ave to the location where it is today. Her family grew during her time at Savannah High because she considered her students her children. Over the years, several students kept in touch with Beverly by visiting and sending cards because she had such an impact on their lives. 

She devoted herself to taking care of her children and her husband, who suffered from Multiple Sclerosis, as well as caring for her aging parents. She displayed profound strength, determination and love throughout her lifetime. 

All those who knew her also knew that her favorite color was Carolina Blue. In honor of Beverly, let’s continue to sing the song she loved. 

“I’m a Tar Heel born.

I’m a Tar Heel bred.

And when I die, I’m a Tar Heel dead. 

Singing rah-rah Carolina-lina, rah-rah Carolina-lina, rah-rah Carolina-lina rah, rah, rah.”

She lives forever in our hearts as a devoted daughter, wife, mother, aunt, friend and Tar Heel. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Humane Society of South Coastal Georgia and cheer on the Tar Heels in Beverly’s memory.

A private family service will be held in Greenwich Cemetery.