“Mama Shirley” is what my sister and I lovingly called her, because she walked with us through every season of life. She was resilient one of the strongest women I have ever known. The strength and courage she poured into us cannot truly be put into words.

No matter what she faced, she met it with unwavering faith and quiet strength. Nothing could keep her down. Even during her most difficult seasons, she continued to pour into my sister and me, standing beside us through some of our darkest moments with our mother. That kind of love selfless, steadfast, and enduring is a rare and beautiful gift.

We were deeply connected. On the day Mama Shirley transitioned, I was in prayer, asking the Lord to ease her suffering and bring her healing. She had always been so faithful, even through her trials and He answered. He brought her home into His arms.

As it is written, to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. She is no longer suffering. She is at peace.

Mama Shirley will be deeply missed. Our only comfort is knowing she is resting in the arms of our Savior and King.

We love you, Mama. Always.

Dina & Tanna 

Sabrina,

So sorry for the loss of your Mom Ms. Shirley. From my interactions with her, she was always a sweet and vibrant woman! I know she treasured all the time she had to raise you, see you married, and enjoy the grandchildren you gave her. She was so proud of you, and Insha'ALLAH (God willing) she will be reunited with you in Jannah (heaven) when that time comes. Hold on to the special memories, for she's not truly gone when she lives on inside you, your siblings, and her grandchildren. Sending warm, healing and comforting hugs to you and the family. God Bless.

Love, your Soror Vernetta Yasmin Marquis

The day is getting closer for me to say my final goodbye to my child, my friend my sister. After 55 years of being in each other's life I still can't believe you are gone.The calls,  the visits, and our talks gone in the blink of an eye. You have meant so much to me thru all the years.A piece of my heart will forever be broken when I think of that 15 year old that walked into my family's life and became one of us. I will love and miss you until the day I am called home. I will miss you but I am glad your pain and suffering is no more.

Sleep well my girl.

I was hurt and lost for words when I heard the news of Shirley's passing.

Shirley was very much loved and will forever be remembered as my loving friend!

To my dearest friend Aminah and family,

Thank you for sharing your mom with me. Ms. Shirley was always so kind, personable, and truly a joy to be around. She had such a warm spirit that made me feel welcome and comfortable.

I still smile thinking about how she got me eating zucchini and squash! I may have only had her dish once, but somehow it became embedded in my meal plan forever. I also really enjoyed our chats about Big Brother and Survivor. She was such a great observer and definitely a strong “couch player.”

Please know that my heart is with you all during this time. I will continue to keep you in my prayers and ask that God gives you strength and peace in the days ahead. May the beautiful memories of your mother continue to live on and bring you comfort.