Shirley A. Givens Johnson, born on May 16, 1950 In Grady, Alabama and departed this Life on September 11, 2024 in her home in Montgomery, Alabama. Shirley was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Known affectionately as "Big Red", “Big Foot”, and "Big Honey," she touched the lives of many with her warmth, humor, and caring nature.
Shirley was a vibrant spirit who loved singing and dancing, showcasing her talents as a cheerleader and majorette in her youth. She also enjoyed playing softball and basketball, exemplifying her energetic personality. Shirley’s favorite pastime was vacationing in Destin, Florida, where she created cherished memories with her family.
An exceptional cook, Shirley was particularly famous for her macaroni and other favorite Southern dishes, including fried fish, collard greens, and she loved watermelon. Shirley had a remarkable sense of humor that made her a delight to be around. She never met a stranger and had a gift for making everyone feel welcome and cherished.
Shirley was a proud mother to Mary Vinson(Jerry Vinson) and she was a doting grandmother to Danielle Vinson-Chiles and great-grandmother to Ethan Chiles. She was preceded in death by her parents Macum and Charlotte Givens, her husband Willie Frank Johnson, and her siblings, Rosie Lee Givens Hunter, Claudia Bell Givens, Johnny Henry Givens, Jimmy Lee Givens, Annie Ruth Givens Watkins, Jessie Larry Givens, Mary Lee Givens Bracey, Mary Nell Givens Tolson, Annie Mae Givens Brown, Patsy Givens Taylor, Macon Henry Givens Jr., Jessie Larry Givens, Charlotte Ann Givens Turner.
Shirley leaves behind her Sister Maybelle McKnight(Maurice McKnight), and some special nephews, and nieces, Michaele Wright(Eric Wright), Linda Russell, Lillie Bender(John Bender), Felecia Jones(Dennis Jones), Jerome Givens(Gwen Givens), Robert Givens(Pamela Givens), Nancy Ann Purvis, Jaymar (MeeMee) Bryant, TreKwan Porterfield, Malik Porterfield, TeMicah Porterfield, Makaylah Porterfield, Makaii Wright, Erial Wright, Erico Wright, Tangela Givens, and Torrence Malakhi Turner who all held a very special place in her heart.
In her professional life, Shirley dedicated herself to nursing, embodying her lifelong commitment to caring for others. Her contributions to the community were recognized when she received the Governor's Hospitality Award on August 16, 1994.
Shirley enjoyed her downtime watching her favorite TV shows like "Jeopardy," "Wheel of Fortune," and "Family Feud," and she had a deep appreciation for classic films such as "The Color Purple", “Splendor in the Grass”, and "The Imitation of Life." She was an avid fan of football and basketball.
Shirley had many special friends, including Juanita Gamble, Felicia Gamble, Corrie Anderson, Selma Swanson, and Travis Lockley among others. Shirley’s legacy of love, laughter, and compassion will be remembered by all who knew her. ”
As we extend our deepest condolences to you and your family during this difficult time, we would also like to express our upmost gratitude to you for entrusting us with your loved one. Magnolia Cremations & Funeral Services.
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