Shirley Settle Wise's Obituary
Shirley Settle Wise, 89, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and devotion to her family and community. She was born in Rappahannock County, VA on August 10, 1936, to the late James E. Settle and Gracie Mae Blackwell Settle.
Shirley was a woman who gave generously of her time and heart. For over 30 years, she was deeply involved with 4-H as the Swine Club leader, where she made a lasting impact on countless young lives. She never missed a swine show, attending all since 1978. Her dedication and leadership led her to become an All Star, a distinction she carried with pride. She also spent more than 30 years as a bus driver, a role through which she became a familiar and trusted presence to generations of children and families.
In addition to her many community contributions, Shirley lent her time and support to the family business, always willing to help wherever needed. Her strong work ethic and selfless spirit were evident in everything she did.
A faithful member of Novum Baptist Church since 1958, Shirley’s life was rooted in her faith. Her church family was dear to her, and she remained a steady and loving presence throughout the years.
Above all, Shirley was known as “Nanny” — a name that perfectly captured her warmth and nurturing nature. She was a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother with a true heart of gold. Her kindness, gentle spirit, and unwavering love will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Shirley’s memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and the many lives she touched through her years of service and compassion.
She is survived by her children, Jesse Wise (Janet), Gary Wise (Donna), Denise Webb (Neil), Jeff R. Wise (Paige) and William “Billy” Wise (Cathy); daughter-in-law, Elizabeth “Liz” Wise, 14 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, Bernard Wise; son, Larry Wise; and six siblings.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to her devoted caregivers, Judy Meredith and Janet Parker, for the compassionate care, kindness, and support they provided to Shirley. Their dedication brought comfort not only to her, but to the entire family, and will always be deeply appreciated.
Visitation will be held on Monday, May 11, 2026, 6-8 pm at Found and Sons Funeral Chapel, 850 Sperryville Pike, Culpeper, VA.
A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at Found and Sons Funeral Chapel at 11 am with Pastor Jeff Light officiating.
Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery, Sperryville Pike, Culpeper, VA.
Pallbearers serving the family are Ashby Wise, Bernard Wise, Jacob Wise, Caleb Webb, Curtis Wise, Matt James, Eric Meredith and Shawn Hayes.
An online guestbook and tribute wall are available at https://www.foundandsons.com
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in her honor to Novum Baptist Church, 1629 Novum Church Rd, Reva, VA 22735, and/or Culpeper 4H Center, 9432 North James Madison Hwy, Suite 101, Rapidan, VA 22733.
Found and Sons Funeral Chapel of Culpeper is serving the family.
What’s your fondest memory of Shirley?
What’s a lesson you learned from Shirley?
Share a story where Shirley's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Shirley you’ll never forget.
How did Shirley make you smile?
