“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” – Matthew 25:23 “…Forgetting what is behind and reaching forward to what is ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 3:13–14
On October 1, 2025, Shirley Ann Haynes—beloved wife, mother, missionary, educator, author, and servant of God—entered eternal rest at the age of 88. A woman of great intellect, deep compassion, and unshakable faith, her life was a living sermon—marked by selfless service, quiet strength, and steadfast devotion to her Lord and Savior.

Born on November 24, 1936, in Claremore, Oklahoma, to Arthur Edward Huff and Iva Lorrain Standifer, Shirley was nurtured in a family steeped in spiritual tradition and unwavering resilience. Her character was shaped early by the influence of her stepfather, Rev. Elmer James, whose faith left a lasting imprint on her life. Her mother, Iva, was an exceptionally gifted organist, known for her dedication to playing in many local churches throughout the Cleveland area—a legacy of musical worship that deeply influenced Shirley’s own love for music and ministry. Shirley grew up alongside her sisters, Deanna Carter (who preceded her in death) and Etta Dailey, in a home where faith, music, family, and purpose were beautifully woven into the fabric of daily life. Though not raised together, she shared a meaningful bond with her brother, Walter Huff.

A Life of Learning and Teaching

Shirley’s academic journey was as impressive as it was intentional. She earned an Associate of Arts in Pre-Med from Hutchinson Junior College, a Bachelor of Arts in Bible Missions from Grace College of the Bible, and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Kent State University. Ever committed to growing in knowledge and purpose, she went on to complete literacy training with the Koinonia Foundation and a specialized writing course through the Institute of Children’s Literature. Certified to teach in the state of Texas, she devoted her life to shaping minds and nurturing souls in classrooms across the globe.
From 1963 to 1967, Shirley served with the Kia Omnia Foundation in Liberia, West Africa—an experience that left a lasting imprint on her heart and deepened her global perspective. Upon her return to the United States, she began teaching in the East Cleveland School District before stepping into a new season of ministry.

A Marriage Rooted in Mission

On July 18, 1970, Shirley married Rev. Emanuel Haynes, Sr.—her life partner in love and in ministry. Together, they answered the call to serve in Jamaica, West Indies under the Missionary Gospel Fellowship (1970–1974), where they poured their hearts into the work of spreading the Gospel. During this time, Shirley endured the sorrow of multiple miscarriages, but her faith remained unshaken. In 1971, the adoption of their daughter Esther brought profound joy and healing-Shirley was finally a mother. Shirley delighted in motherhood—sewing matching mother-daughter outfits, nurturing with creativity, and modeling grace with every step.
Upon returning to the U.S., she and Emanuel adopted their second daughter, Sarah—affectionately known as her “shadow”—and later welcomed the birth of Emanuel Jr., whose life was tragically cut short in a drowning accident. With unfathomable resilience, Shirley continued to expand her family, soon after adopting Samuel “her heart”, and later, two brothers-Robert and Anthony “her two joys”. Each child became a living testament to her boundless love and the generous spirit that defined her motherhood.

A Calling That Spanned Continents

Shirley’s teaching ministry extended far and wide. She served at the Go Ye Bible Institute (1974–1981) and then devoted decades to public education across Texas: Smithville ISD, Austin ISD, Gary Job Corps in San Marcos, Elgin ISD, and Del Valle ISD. After relocating to Florida to be near her daughter Esther—who cared for both Shirley and Emanuel in their later years—she continued teaching through Kelly Educational Services in Duval County and at Faith Christian Academy in Orange Park (2005–2007).
Even in retirement, her heart remained committed to service. After the passing of her husband in 2014, Shirley later relocated to Virginia on September 28, 2022 to be near her daughter Esther, as the progression of cognitive decline and Shirley’s mobility made it increasingly difficult for her to live independently. With deep love and unwavering commitment, Esther ensured her mother received the compassionate care she needed—walking alongside her through this tender final chapter. Shirley courageously journeyed through the trials of dementia—a season that revealed the enduring strength of her spirit and the deep devotion of those who loved her. Even as memory faded, her faith remained radiant. She became a beloved presence in both assisted living and nursing care, where she led Bible studies, hosted games, and formed new bonds of friendship—her light undimmed.

A Life of Joy, Beauty, and Legacy

While her life was defined by service, it was also filled with beauty. Shirley cherished the arts—finding joy in opera, ballet, and music. She played piano with quiet reverence, crocheted intricate designs with care, and delighted in word games like Scrabble, Sudoku, and dominoes. Her passions were simple yet profound—a window into a soul that was curious, elegant, and ever creative.
She was also a woman of vision. From February 3, 2012, until her passing, Shirley served on the board of her daughter Esther’s 501(c)(3) global nonprofit, Miscarriage Matters, Inc.—a ministry offering hope and healing to women and men experiencing pregnancy loss. It was a mission close to her heart and a role in which she truly thrived.

In 2015, Shirley became a published author with her children’s book Where’s the Bear (Tate Publishing), written for early readers and inspired by her love of storytelling and child development.

In her final weeks, she was lovingly surrounded by family. Visits from her daughter Sarah and son-in-law Kevin, cousins Ronald and Elaine Standifer, niece Samantha Carter, sister Etta Dailey, and nephew James Reed brought comfort and companionship. Her daughter Esther remained faithfully by her side in those sacred final days, offering strength, presence, and love.

Her daughter Sarah writes: Our mother, Shirley Ann had a special gift, she made each one of her children, Esther, Sarah, Robert, Anthony, and David, feel like they were the most important person in the world who could master anything through God. She was also so proud of being a grandmother starting with the first grandson of 17 years, David Tyler, then Tyree of 16 years, and Isaiah of 15 years. In turn, as each of her five children, were adopted, one by one, each of her children admired her resiliency and were moved deeply in their own unique ways. Thank you mother, for your unconditional love and reminder of who always comes first God. Her baby girl, Sarah Ann, named after her would like to express one thing Shirley Ann told her a decade ago, ” Trust in the Lord with all your heart…” Fly with the Angels mom. We love you and will see you soon.

Cherished Family
Shirley is survived by her children:
•
Esther Stanard (Ryan Stanard), and their sons Isaiah Stanard and Ryan Stanard II
•
Sarah Haynes-Robinzine (Kevin Robinzine), and their children Kevin Jr., Kamden, and Lalaini Robinzine
•
Robert Haynes (Crystal Haynes), and their son Ty’ree Haynes Jr.
•
Anthony Haynes (Autumn Haynes)
•
Samuel Haynes, and his son David Tyler Haynes
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 44 years, Rev. Emanuel Haynes, Sr., and their precious son, Emanuel Jr.
Beyond her immediate family, Shirley is lovingly remembered by her older brother, younger sister, numerous nieces and nephews, extended family, dear friends, former students, and fellow missionaries—each of whom was deeply touched by her life and legacy.

A Legacy of Faith, Grace, and Joy

To know Shirley Haynes was to encounter something eternal. She lived with dignity, walked in humility, and poured herself out in love for others. Her faith was the compass by which she lived, and her legacy is one that spans continents, generations, and hearts.
She sowed seeds that will continue to bloom—in every classroom she taught, every child she nurtured, every soul she encouraged, and every life she touched. Her song is now complete, her journey fulfilled, and her spirit rejoices in the presence of the Lord she so faithfully served.

“Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord… they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.” – Revelation 14:13
Her life was her sermon. And her legacy is eternal.