Shirley Matthews

Shirley Ann Matthews was born on November 25, 1948, in Columbus, Mississippi, to the union of Tom and Annie Laura Matthews. At the age of seven, she moved with her family to Muskegon, Michigan, where she enjoyed a nurturing upbringing as the eldest sister among nine siblings.

Shirley was a faithful and dedicated member of Zion Baptist Church for many years. As a member she served on the Mother's Board. She felt blessed and honored to be called a church mother.

Shirley had a heart and spirit to served. She volunteered for many years at Angell School providing tutoring to elementary students. She was a main staple at the Freddie Townsel Action Center where she distributed food and clothing to those in need. People would often contact her at her residence to gain access to food and community services. She didn't want anyone to be without, especially the children.

Shirley received various community awards as well as acknowledgements in news articles for her volunteerism and strong sense of community. Her first love was GOD, family, church, and community. She loved spending time with family, cooking and baking. She was known for having a great taste in fashion, this was displayed by her stylish suit & hat collection.

On August 19th , 2025 Shirley transitioned from this earthy home to her heavenly home. She leaves to cherish her memory four children: William Matthews, Stephanie (Glen) Matthews-Mitchell, Madge Matthews, Marcel Matthews, an adopted grandson Calvin Matthews. She is survived by nine siblings: Annie Pearl Jordan, Mylon (Greg) Reynolds, Jerome (Debra) Matthews, Michael Ross, Sonya Ross, Mattie Walls, Twana (Eddie) Webber, Renee Walls, Tony (Earlie Mae) Walls and Willie Earl Jethro, close friends: Dorothy Jordan, Vonnie Sanders, Rochelle Haynes, Carrie Haver, Doris Jones and Mary Ann Day. There is a host of grandchildren and great grandchildren, several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and extended family members that will miss her dearly.

Shirley was proceeded in death by her father (Tom Matthews), mother (Annie Laura Ross), Stepfather (Kenneth Ross), siblings (Tony, Verlin & Tyrone Matthews, Betty Colbrook and Lillie Lou Belvins), nephews (Anthony Banister, Courtney Brewster & Kris Matthews) son (Theofflis "Ted" Houston).

SERVICE

Friday, August 29, 2025, 11:00 AM at Fresh Annoiting COGIC. Interment in Sunrise Memorial Gardens.

VISITATION

Friday, 29th of August, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Fresh Annoiting COGIC. Please visit www.clockfuneralhome.com to leave a memory or sign the online guestbook.