Shirley Exley, a longtime Crystal River resident, died peacefully on March 30th, 2026, at age 96 after a short illness. Born September 4th, 1929, in Providence, Rhode Island, Exley moved to South Florida in 1960 before eventually settling in the Crystal River area.
Exley’s passing marks the end of a life that spanned nearly a century, witnessing significant changes in Florida’s Nature Coast region. Her family described her death as peaceful, noting she went home to be with her lord and savior.
The Crystal River community has lost a resident who lived through decades of growth and development in Citrus County. Exley’s journey from Rhode Island to Florida in 1960 reflected the migration patterns that helped shape the modern Nature Coast, as many retirees and families sought Florida’s warmer climate and coastal lifestyle.
Details about funeral arrangements and services have not yet been announced by the family. Exley’s nearly 97 years of life encompassed major historical events and the transformation of Crystal River from a small coastal community to a popular destination known for its manatee population and natural springs.
Originally reported by Citrus County Chronicle – Crystal River
