Pauline "Polly" Willis Causby, 92, of Shelby, died Tuesday, November 23, 2021 at Atrium Health, Kings Mountain, N.C. She was born to Charles and Sarah Abernethy on January 25, 1929 in Hickory, North Carolina. As a graduate of Hickory High School, she went on to attend Lenoir Rhyne College, earning her teaching degree. During that time, she also met and married her husband, Irvin "Punk" Willis. Upon graduation, Polly (Mrs. Willis), taught English in the Cleveland County school system for over 30 years. As a longtime member of First Baptist Church in Shelby, she served as a faithful member of the choir, deacon, church historian, WMU member, and an encourager to all. Preceding her in death were her parents, Charles and Sarah, her devoted husband of 47 years, Punk Willis, her siblings (Margaret, Dot, Vivian and Chuck), and her loving husband of 7 years, Harold Causby. Polly is survived by her children, Jan Harris and husband, Mark, of Rutherfordton; Bryan Willis and wife, Natalie, of Boone; her children through marriage to Harold Causby: David Causby and wife, Rebecca, of Shelby and Robert Causby of Charleston, S.C.; her grandchildren, Kelsey Helmick and husband, Casey; Alex Harris and wife, Nuriya of New York; Elliott Willis of Boone; and Lucas Harris of Charlotte; her great-grandchildren, Molly, Wyatt and Stefan. Harold's grandchildren, Lucinda, Kate, Stephen, Keeley, Forrest, Gordon and their families held a very special place in her heart. Polly was beloved by her extended family, including many nieces and nephews, as well as many close friends. On Friday, November 26, there will be a family graveside service followed by a celebration of her life in the sanctuary of First Baptist Church at 2:00. For those who feel comfortable, the family will receive friends following the service. The family understands that this is a time when many of you will be with your own families for Thanksgiving. You may send condolences through Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home and/or send notes to the Harris Family 379 Pleasant Hill Rd., Rutherfordton, NC and the Willis Family PO Box 1042, Boone, NC. Memorials may be sent to: First Baptist Church Shelby/Music Ministry 120 N. Lafayette Street Shelby, NC 28150 Or Samaritan's Purse PO Box 3000 Boone, NC 28607

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home is serving the family.

Online condolences can be made at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com