Shirley Black, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, was called home
to be with the Lord on September 23, 2024, at the age of 88 in Baptist Hospital, Collierville, TN. She lived a full and vibrant life, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and resilience.
Shirley was known for her generous spirit, her warmth, and her quiet wisdom. She had a gift for making those around her feel loved and valued. Her home was always open, and she found immense happiness in sharing stories, meals, and laughter with family and friends. Her three children were her pride and joy, and she doted on her grandchildren, who adored their “Gaga/Gammie.”
Shirley’s legacy is one of strength, kindness, and the quiet courage of a woman who lived life on her terms. She was an active member of the community, volunteering at the local library and the Rancho Bernardo American Cancer Society Discovery Shop (RB-ACSDS). She was the founder of the Rancho Bernardo High School Friends of the Library (RBHS-FOL), dedicating many years of service through fundraising and advocacy, ensuring every RBHS student was provided with a strong learning foundation that begins with a quality school library.
Her many credits for her outstanding service included receiving the highest award when she was selected as ‘Rancho Bernardo Hats Off Volunteer of the Year 2015’ and inducted into the ‘Rancho Bernardo Hall of Fame 2020.’ During her tenure, members of RBHS-FOL truly became her extended family, along with those from the RB-ACSDS. All who knew her will remember her unwavering love for her family and community.
Shirley is survived by her three children, Michael Black of Charlotte, NC; Julie (Maria) Gause and her beloved son-in-law Edward Gause of Byhalia, MS; Juliette (Marcy) Black of Charlotte, NC; one bonus daughter, Sonia May Anderson of Woodbridge, VA; two granddaughters, Jordana (Jimmy) Anderson of Arlington, VA; Jerrika Anderson-Edwards of Richmond, VA; her one and only grandson, Zachary Antonio Gibson-Black of Poway, CA; one surviving sister, Joni L. (Bernard) Gross-McRae; and one surviving brother, Willie Jerry (Jean) Gross. A host of nieces and nephews also survive her. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Judy E. House-Cotter.
Shirley’s family (Michael, Maria, and Marcy) is requesting instead of flowers, that donations to honor Shirley’s memory support the cause she was passionate about – educating our youth. Your donations will help continue her legacy of community service and support for education. All donations will go to the Rancho Bernardo High School Friends of the Library (RBHSFOL) Founder’s Scholarship.
Services To Be Held:
Saturday, November 2, 2024
11:00AM
Mesa View Baptist Church
13230 Pomerado Road
Poway, CA 92064
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