- Date Of Birth: March 30, 1935
- Date Of Death: November 22, 2019
- State: North Carolina
Shirley Alene Owens-Smith was born on March 30, 1935 in Sampson County, North Carolina to the late Earl Lee Owens and Bridie Demps-Owens. She was preceded in death by brothers: James Owens, Willie Owens, Almond Owens, Wendell Owens and Benny Owens, one sister: Melva Owens, and one daughter: Emma Smith Vassell.
At an early age she joined Mount Pleasant Baptist Church. Where she served as an usher and cafeteria worker. For most of her years she worked as a housekeeper. To her family and friends, Shirley was strong-willed, caring, and nurturing. She helped raise a multitude of children. Four of her own biological children, along with those of family members and children from the community. Totaling up to four generations that she showered with love.
Shirley answered the Master’s call on Friday, November 22, 2019 at 1:37pm. She has left to cherish her memories: one son, Gary Owens (Bridget) of Salemburg, NC, two daughters: Wanda Smith-Melvin (Bernard) of Roseboro, NC, and Crystal Smith of the home, three sisters: Alice Holmes of Clinton, NC, Jean Owens and Cynthia Owens both of Brooklyn, NY, two brothers: Eddie Owens of Brooklyn, NY and Raymond Owens (Linda) of Clinton, NC, and one God-child: James-Eward Garner.
Shirley is also survived by nine grandchildren, a host of great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Along with many cousins and friends that loved her dearly.
