Shirley Yvonne entered this world to Charles and Arianna Preston on September 22, 1936. She was the eldest of two girls (sister “Patsy”). Shirley was educated in the Philadelphia Public School system, graduating from John Bartram High School. Her childhood was filled with plenty of family and fun. Born a part of the larger Valentine (matriarch) family, Shirley and Patsy were raised with a host of aunts, uncles, and first cousins.

As a child and young adult, Shirley attended New Bethlehem Baptist Church where she sang in the youth choir and played piano. Her spiritual life would continue to evolve over the years leading her to a call in the ministry.

In 1969, Shirley moved to Cleveland, Ohio joining her girls Charlene and Sheryl who had come shortly before her. She found employment with the Urban League of Greater Cleveland as the executive assistant to the Executive Director. Growing up in that era she learned early on that having excellent administrative skills would carry her far as a young woman. Many employment opportunities offered administrative (secretarial) training and Shirley’s administrative skills were impeccable.

She continued working for non-profit organizations. Shirley became a member of Lee-Seville Baptist Church in the eighties and later became the assistant to the Pastor Otis Newton. While there she established the Angels Closet Clothing Ministry.

In 1973, Shirley met Norman Stout and after a brief courtship they formed a union that would span 46 years until Norman’s passing in 2020.

Shirley, an artistic creative soul; studied modeling and acting in Philadelphia and at the prestigious Karamu House in Cleveland, Ohio. Shirley loved to do things that would stimulate her brain. An avid reader as well, she enjoyed crossword and jigsaw puzzles, the more pieces the better. She also loved Mahjong and Solitaire.

As a thirteen-year cancer survivor, Shirley continued to accomplish her goals in ministry. Her faith and determination enabled her to earn an Associate of Biblical Studies degree from the Christian Leadership University given from Monroe, Louisiana and a Certificate of Completion of Ministerial Studies from inter-denominational Church of God, Maple Hts., Ohio.

Shirley Leaves to honor and cherish her memory, daughter Charlene (Enorris, Sr.) Smith, daughter Sheryl Bennett, one sister, Patricia Ann Thompson, seven grandchildren, Erik (Ebony) Smith, Shawnte (Steven, Sr. ) Johnson, Shavon Smith, Enorris Smith, Jr., Jillian P. Bennett, William C. Bennett, Charles P. Bennett, 17 great-grandchildren, one great-great grandson, a very special angel/caregiver Antoinette “Toni” Guilford, and a host of nieces , nephews, cousins, and friends.