Nanci and Joel - my deepest sympathy on the passing of your dear mother.  My sister, Kerry, joins in extending her sympathies to you.  Your mother was such a special woman.  I know that my mother enjoyed many a morning walk in the park with your mother as they discussed topics of the world while getting their exercise.  I must admit I was tickled when I was able to join them during my visits home.  Please know that I will keep your mother, you and your families in my prayers. 

Missy Horton Aykent

Dear Family and Friends of Shirley Browner,

My deepest condolences on Shirley’s passing. I met her over 30 years ago as a doctoral intern at the University of Maryland Counseling Center. She was one of the staff counselors in the Learning Assistance Service (LAS). During my internship year, I came to know her quite well, as LAS served as safe and welcoming space where interns would escape for a mid-morning or afternoon snack, a warm embrace, kind words of encouragement, and genuine support.

Shirley, a skilled writer and editor, reviewed my dissertation, as she had done for countless undergraduate, masters, and doctoral students. She was always available and was consistently supportive, helpful, and kind, and the best cheerleader of your successes, big and small. Students who were fortunate enough to work with her, benefited from her calm presence, constant reassurance, and toolkit of effective strategies for academic success. They don’t make them like her anymore.

Over the years, I came to know Shirley as a person with a steady presence, reliable, dependable and open to new ideas and experiences. When LAS began to offer on-line classes, some had doubts, but Shirley, used to in-person classes, was willing to try this innovation. Once she got the hang of it, she saw its value, and she embraced this approach to enhance her highly refined teaching skills.

The Counseling Center has employed numerous highly qualified professionals throughout its history. Shirley was regularly selected to serve on search committees across various divisions of the Center. Both Dr. Vivian Boyd and, subsequently, myself as director, consistently appointed Shirley to these roles. Shirley demonstrated the same diligence, fairness, reliability, and discernment in hiring processes as she did in all her responsibilities. Furthermore, Shirley generously contributed her time and actively participated in committees, outreach initiatives, celebrations, holiday events, and other gatherings. She loved a good party.

Shirley was a person of many talents, one of which was her love of poetry. At major celebrations, she would often appear on the program reciting a heartfelt, beautifully written poem tailored specifically to the honoree. I was blessed with a poem that she wrote for me. It is a lasting memory that I will always treasure.

Shirley was a remarkable educator whose warmth, generosity, and dedication were truly exceptional. She leaves a legacy of excellence in student development that serves as an example for all of us.

To Shirley’s family and friends, I want you to know that many caring hearts are with you at this time of bereavement. May your memories serve as a source of peace and comfort. You are lifted in my thoughts and prayers.

Sharon Kirkland-Gordon

Nanci, Harvey, Michael (Leah), Brian (Kelsey), and Nicole,

We were so sorry to hear of Shirley’s passing.  She will forever be a part of our time in Maryland—our kids growing up with your kids - with both Paul and Shirley such a part of our family (sports, school activities, family get togethers, holidays…all the things!). 

Shirley, your quiet but always welcoming and sweet nature was so special.  You were always so thoughtful, and it was always fun having long conversations with you.  You were so proud of your grandkids! 

Rest in peace, and may God’s blessings be upon you and your family. 

Mike, Patricia, Jared (Allie), Abbey (Brock), and Sydney…aka “The Montoya’s”

See You Next Friday

Some people come into your life

Quietly…

And somehow leave footprints

On your heart forever.

I thought I was walking into a job.

Just a shift.

Just another day.

But you already knew.

You chose me.

And if you wanted something,

You always found a way.

Friday mornings became

More than mornings.

They became wisdom sessions.

Story time.

Life lessons wrapped in laughter

From a soul that was both strong

And beautifully gentle.

You told me about Jersey.

About growing up.

About love.

“You don’t even know me,” you told him.

But he did.

And he married you.

And he was the love of your life.

I saw it every time you spoke about him —

In your smile,

In the softness of your voice,

In the way love never really left you.

You would say,

“Thank you.”

“I appreciate you.”

And I would smile and say,

“Of course, of course, of course.”

And you would laugh.

And just like that,

It became our language.

You reminded me who I was

When you said,

“You’re the best.

And if anyone asks who told you —

Tell them I did.”

And every Friday morning,

As I prepared to leave,

You would say,

“Don’t forget, I love you.”

And I would answer,

“I love you too.

See you next Friday.”

Some goodbyes

Are not really goodbyes.

Because love does not end

When someone leaves this world.

Mrs. Shirley,

You were wisdom.

You were strength.

You were love in human form.

And though Friday mornings

Will feel different now,

I will carry you

In every lesson,

Every laugh,

Every quiet moment of remembering.

Until we meet again…

Rest in perfect peace.

Nancy and Joel I’m sending you and your family my love. I have so many wonderful memories of being with you guys growing up. I love you and may your lovely mommy rest in peace.

Love, Susanne 

Neighbor, friend, “movie buddy” and so much more, dearest Shirley will always hold a special place in my heart and memory. Rest in peace!

Lynne