Shirley (Martin) Williams

Shirley Martin Williams, the daughter of the late Mrs. Marie Smith Neely and Mr. David Martin was born on December 5, 1934, in Shreveport, Louisiana.  She joined the ranks of the immortal on Sunday, July 19, 2020.  She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Willie Martin.

Shirley completed her elementary and secondary education in the public-school system of Caddo Parish in Shreveport, Louisiana.  Education was encouraged by her Mother, she attended Grambling State College (University) where she earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Early Childhood Education, she went on to receive a Master of Science Degree in Counseling from Fort Valley State College (University).

Her career was illustrious: she taught school in Shreveport, Louisiana, and after moving to Albany she worked in the Dougherty County School System and later worked at Albany Technical School (College).

Shirley was active in civic organizations: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Albany Faculty Wives, and La Feliz Club.

Shirley cultivated meaningful relationships with colleagues, mentored students, and developed many friendships along the continuum of her career and retirement.

Shirley united in holy matrimony to Vernon C. Williams whom she leaves to cherish her loving memories of 58 years.

Shirley’s memories will forever be cherished by her loving daughters, Gail Williams (Dallas, TX), and Vernadette Williams (Charlotte, NC); her siblings, Jean Martin (Los Angeles, CA), Joyce Walker (Cleveland, OH), Elmo Martin (Los Angeles, CA) and Jackie Byrdsong (Los Angeles, CA); two grandchildren, Jessica Chubbs (Charlotte, NC) and Jayson Sam (Dallas, TX); four great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

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