November 7, 2026, 86, Dudley – Curtis Tapp Shivar, 86, of Dudley, peacefully transitioned from his earthly life into his eternal home with his Lord and Savior on Saturday afternoon, November 7, 2026, while receiving compassionate care at Kitty Askins Hospice Center.
Curtis was born to the late Willie Tapp Shivar and Doris Price Shivar of Seven Springs, NC. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Larry Shivar, Tim Shivar, and Marian Shivar Barwick.
He leaves behind his beloved wife of 61 years, Virginia Holt Shivar of Dudley; his daughter, Janie Shivar of Raleigh; and his son, Phil Shivar and wife, Deborah, of Mount Olive. He was a proud and loving grandfather, “Pa” to Hope Shivar of Mount Olive and Matthew Shivar and wife, Ashton, of Pink Hill, and a cherished great-grandfather to Everett Shivar. He is also
survived by his brother, D.W. Shivar and wife, Edith, of the Liddell community; sisters-in-law, Nancy Rose of Smithfield and Trudy Shivar of Seven Springs; as well numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
Curtis lived a life deeply rooted in faith, family, service, and community. A devoted Christian, he and his beloved wife were faithful members of Mays Chapel Original Free Will Baptist Church for more than 50 years. Throughout those years, Curtis dedicated countless hours to serving the church in numerous capacities, including Deacon, Sunday School Superintendent, and member of the Board of Trustees. However, one of his greatest joys was serving as Choir Director, where he shared his love for music and his passion for worshiping the Lord.
His commitment to serving others extended far beyond the walls of his church. Curtis devoted more than 40 years of his professional life to education, serving in various capacities throughout his career, including Vice President of Wayne Community College, before his retirement. He believed in the importance of education, hard work, and helping others
succeed. He was also actively involved in the Wayne County Livestock Development Association, serving as President for over 20 years, where he generously contributed his time, knowledge, and leadership in support of the local agricultural community.
Beyond his dedication to education and community service, Curtis had a deep love and appreciation for farming and agriculture. Farming was an important part of his life, reflecting the values of hard work, perseverance, and dedication that he carried with him in all that he did. His passion for agriculture was evident not only in his own farming endeavors but also through his many years of involvement with the Wayne County Livestock Development Association. He took great pride in the agricultural community and valued the relationships, friendships, and opportunities to serve others that came through his love of farming.
Curtis also held a special place in his heart for the Wayne County Regional Agricultural Fair, dedicating countless hours of his time and efforts to supporting its continued success. His love for agriculture and his commitment to his community were evident through his involvement with the fair, where he took great pride in helping preserve the agricultural traditions and values that meant so much to him.
A man who truly exemplified servant leadership, Curtis was recognized for his years of faithful service and dedication through his induction into the Original Free Will Baptist Wall of Honor and the Wayne County Agricultural Hall of Fame. These honors reflected the lasting impact he made through his commitment to his church, his profession, and his community.
While Curtis accomplished much throughout his lifetime, his greatest blessings were found in the simple joys of being surrounded by those he loved. He was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and great-grandfather who treasured every opportunity to spend time with his family. His grandchildren and great-grandson held an especially dear place in his heart, and the time he shared with them brought him immeasurable happiness.
Curtis will be remembered not only for his many accomplishments and years of service, but also for the example he set through his unwavering faith, strong work ethic, humble leadership, and genuine love for others. His was a life well lived, filled with purpose, service, and devotion to the Lord and those around him. Though his earthly presence will be deeply missed, the lessons he taught, the love he shared, and the legacy he built will continue to live on through his family and the countless lives he touched.
A service to celebrate his life will be held on Tuesday evening, at 6 o’clock in the chapel of Tyndall Funeral Home. Rev. Kelvin Coates will officiate the service visitation beginning at 5 o’clock until service time. Burial will take place on Wednesday afternoon, at 2 o’clock at Wayne Memorial Park. Flowers are welcome, or memorials may be directed to Mays Chapel OFWB Church, c/o Mrs. Deborah Shivar, P.O. Box 966, Dudley, NC 28333; or to Kitty Askins Hospice Center, 2402 Wayne Memorial Drive Goldsboro, NC 27534
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