As I sit here reminiscing, my thoughts are with you Shirley. When I entered THE ARLINGTON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL # 234 in September 1971, fresh out of COPPIN, one of the first persons I met was you, 6th grade teacher extraordinaire. You became one of my mentors who supported and guided me on my path as a new fifth grade teacher. Never selfish, you were always eager to share teaching strategies, and your wisdom to make not only me but others better at their craft. You truly loved teaching and touched the lives of many students and their parents.

As compassionate as you were, you also had a great sense of humor. Some of the fun times were after school when the students had gone home. You loved music. My room was around the corner at the other end of the long hall (Arlington has long halls and long steps), and one afternoon when teachers were left in the building I heard someone singing very loudly. I stepped to my door and saw that it was you perched on top of a piano with another teacher pushing you down the hall. Needless to say everyone who was there fell out with laughter. Yes, we had some good times at Arlington.

Rest well my friend, you have earned your crown. To the family remember:
Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning. Psalm 30:5

The time to say goodbye is always too soon. Reflections of times shared together and times missed in sharing, moments settle in the heart, treasures blossom as we recollect the warmth of your love, the wisdom of your years, and the love you did not spare to share; the advice over a delicious meal you prepared. I thank my G-d that He blessed me with you in my life: Your being—a place to call a second home from my wee-years and beyond; a sure-foundation when visiting from afar; a second mom, an aunt who gave me second siblings, life-long friends.

You have gone to your long home as we who remain rejoice in having known you. It is our time to weep, our time to mourn, for you have left us: Your silver cord, loosed; your golden bowl, broken; your spirit returning to our Maker. (Eccl. 3:4, 12:6-7)

You are loved and missed, Aunt Shirley.

Praying for you in your Loss
Memories are gifts our heart's recieve to bring gentle comfort as we grieve.
Asking God to wrap you in his faithful love and comfort you with the cherished memories you hold dear.
The memory of the righteous is a blessing.
Shirley was my first cousin on my mother's side of the family.Shirley was a joy to be around.I would come to affairs with my sister Deffie.My mom was Margaret C.Hayes and they always called her Cassie.

Laying here thinking about you and just needed to vent my feelings. I know you are not here in this guest book, but I feel your spirit as I read the words shared by others. I’m so glad I got to experience all that is you from the trees view instead of the forest. I miss you mommy. I miss living in the phase of our relationship where our bond became so strong, particularly over the last six months. I miss our weekend dates this past summer of sitting in the back yard, just the two of us, eating steak, listening to music, and playing pinochle. I miss “fussing” with you. I miss the times yet spent, the adventures yet taken. I’m grateful for the gift of your love. I’m grateful for the memories you created because they will keep you with me forever. My tears are warm and now are accompanied with a smile. I love you.

Aunt Shirley, I’m so grateful I got to spend some time with you before you headed home to be with the Lord. Your infectious smile and sweet spirit blessed me so much and so honored that you were my great great Aunt! I’ve enjoyed learning about your life and stories through my grandmother. I love you so much! - Jayla

Cousin Shirley Lassiter Gordon

A precious one has gone from us
A voice we loved is still
A place is vacant in our heart
which never can be filled?

Nothing you love is lost.
Not really.
Things, people,
they always go away, sooner or later.
You can’t hold them, any more than you can hold moonlight.
But if they’ve touched you, if they’re inside you, then they’re still yours.
The only things you ever really have are the ones you hold inside your heart .

Shirley was a risk taker who was outspoken, caring, amazing, inspiring and intelligent.

She had a passion for reading, loved her work , listening to music and loved to cook and entertain.

Shirley‘s memory will be cherished by her children, grand and great grandchildren, along with her many relatives and friends.

YOU will be greatly missed by all who experienced YOUR kindness, generosity, joy for living, and most of all love!

With love , respect, and gratitude,
Cousin Mary Lassiter-Green

Aunt Shirley I know you’re in Heaven rejoicing with Grandma and your sisters and brothers! You’re in a whole new Beautiful body in Christ! I want to Thank You for all the Beautiful Memories you have given me , all the amazing boat ride trips have always stayed in my heart!
Love You and you will truly be missed!

Phalonda

We are So Thankful that We are able to Reflect Over the Love, Good Times and Happy Memories with Aunt Shirley, Big Sister and Friend!

Aunt Shirley was a true spirit. I always admired the way she dressed and kept them sharp hair cuts. Now she is flying with the angels. Fly on Aunt Shirley , nothing but love for you and you will truly be missed. I will see you in the morning.

    Phillip

    

Aunt Shirley, your beauty, strength, and spirit will never be forgotten. You leaves us with memories we will hold close forever. Rest well in peace and love.

Love Always
LaTron

We would like to share that Aunt Shirley was truly a very special soul. From the very first time I met her, her spirit stood out. She was funny, loving, and deeply rooted in family. There was something undeniably special about her presence, and she carried herself with grace as a beautiful woman inside and out.
I will always remember the first time we met. She asked, “Who are you?” and once she was told, the very next thing she said was, “I will be at the wedding.” We all laughed and said, “You will.” That moment captured who she was, full of love, commitment, and joy for family milestones.
Though we may not see Aunt Shirley with our natural eyes, we feel her love, her legacy, and her presence in our lives.
Now, Aunt Shirley can put on her crown and tell the story of how she made it over. And for those of us still here, we must continue to pray and work for the Kingdom of God, so that one day we too will hear those precious words when we get home:
“Well done… well done,” good and faithful servant. 
With love and faith,
Pastor Al E. Johnson & Lady LaTronya