Shirley Evans Obituary

Didn't realize it had been 14 yrs that my lovely aunt transitioned. Many things have happened during this time, her family has of course grown even larger. We went through a full blown pandemic that shut us away from family. But nothing has changed about the missing piece that she was to all of us. As a child she taught me how to set a table correctly for our holiday dinners, a time when we shared good food, good stories and so many good hugs. But most importantly she taught us how to love, keep hold and cherish family.

I so miss her loving heart.

Shirley Evans was my mother-in-law. I have been so blessed to have had her in my life. She set the finest example in demonstrating the value of family. She helped me to understand that there is no thing or no one greater than the family. For this I am very grateful.

Dear Venis: Sunday October 19, 2008 Thanks for agreeing to read our condolences to your family at today's commemoration of the life of your grandmother, Shirley Evans, being held at Woodlawn A. M. E. Church today. Lillian Irene Allen (maiden name Barnes), Augustus (little Gus) and I, Lamont Henry Yeakey (Monty)--grandson and son respectively--send our deepest heartfelt condolences at the passing of your grandmother. Your grandmother, Shirley was more than a friend but rather a "sister" to Irene. They grew up together; and,although Shirley was in the same class as her older brother, Gus (Augustus Barnes), they were special members of "the Woodlawn Family" there on the southside of Chicago. Moreover, they were the dearest of life-long friends. Shirley was an "aunt" to me, who took care of me, who always encouraged me to go to school, work hard, do my best, respect myself and others, have dignity, be good. Although we cannot be there with you, Razzaaq (Irvin), and all the other members of the family and friends, we want you to know that Shirley was (and is) a blessing in our lives. She was/is one of those rare human beings who always exhibited the highest virtues one can exhibit. She was kind and generous, always giving of herself to alleviate the problems and difficulties of others.She was thoughtful and wise, always offering insight into life that would make us better people.She was full of grace, exhibiting a rare beauty that encouraged us to try to overcome our frailties and never be judgmental of others.She had a great sense of optimism and respect for life and humanity, always finding some good in everyone.She had an indomitable spirit, that counseled and taught by example.She was always there for us, willing to listen and understand. She demonstrated the same kindness and generosity of spirit toward little Gus, my son and Irene's grandson. She never forgot a birthday and always sent us greetings with her handwritten notes inside on holidays and for special occasions. She made us laugh and had a great sense of humor. She knew how to take the edge off of difficult situations and made us see the brighter side of things. Shirley Evans was an extraordinary woman, who made all of our lives immeasurably better because of her being here. And, this is a great and outstanding accomplishment! So, it is with the profoundest gratitude and respect, with the deepest love and appreciation, with memories of the countless experiences (which are far too numerous to restate here) that we send our condolences for the life of your grandmother, Shirley Evans. Shirley will forever remain with us. Thank you Shirley. Forever with Respect, Gratitude, and Love, Irene, little Gus, and Monty Alhambra, California

"Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints." Ps. 116:15. We will miss Cousin Shirley Evans (the Matriarch of our family), yet we know that that she is at peace and the host of Heaven rejoice in her home going. Those of us who believe know that one day we will see her again and hear those words, "I'm not complaining, I'm just reporting."

Dear Family,

Imagine what a wonderful celebration there must have been in heaven for Cousin Shirley. There must have been singing and dancing at the arrival of this grand lad and what a reunion with those gone before her. We loved her and will miss her but praise God that she is at home and at peace.

In love,
The Haughton and Pitts Family

As the days, weeks and months go by, may your hearts continue to be filled and comforted with warm memories of Cousin Shirley Evans, who gave unselfishly and was loved by many near and far. She will be truly missed.

Our family shared many memories because of Shirley Evans. Family meant the "world" to her, and because of her, I know our family will always be just a little bit closer and a little bit stronger.
God Blessed us with Shirley Evans

May God's peace be with you and your family.

Aminah

Venis,

My Prayers goes out to you and your family. May Jehovah God comfort You & Your Family in the loss of your Love One.

Heaven called an angel home.

Venis,

Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you. May God continue to comfort you.

COLOR ME ORANGE



Orange was your favorite color

Even though occasionally you liked blue

You said it brought energy

We definitely saw it in you



You covered yourself with orange

From your feet to your head

Orange was the color of your hats

Or the color of your bedspread



Orange is the color of Autumn

When the season is no longer the same

How ironic you left us in October

When everything begins to change



Written especially for Shirley R. Evans

By -Venis