Shirley Ann Brown Harris

Shirley Ann Brown Harris was born on September 21, 1945, in Whigham, Georgia, to her devoted parents, Edgar and Leola Brown. As the cherished only daughter among four brothers, Shirley developed a resilient and determined spirit that defined her life.

From an early age, Shirley's faith was at the center of her life. She joined Cedar Springs A.M.E. Church in Whigham, where she embraced her role in serving the Lord. After graduating with the Class of 1963 from Washington Consolidated High School in Cairo, Georgia, Shirley set her
sights on new horizons. She first ventured to Jacksonville, Florida, before settling briefly in Tallahassee. In 1968, Shirley moved to Brooklyn, New York, where she began working for Wells Rich Greene, a prominent advertising agency in New York City.

While in Brooklyn, Shirley's life was forever changed when she met the love of her life, Gilberto P. Harris. United by their deep-rooted faith and love for one another, Shirley and Gilberto decided to return to the South closer to home. They made Tallahassee, Florida, their permanent home, where they built a life centered on family, faith, and service.

In Tallahassee, Shirley began working for the Leon County School System. In 1989, she joined Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, where she found her spiritual home and an outlet for her unwavering dedication to ministry. Shirley was the administrator and special assistant to the pastor. She was the first secretary for Bethel Christian Academy. She wore many hats during her years of service at Bethel. Her commitment to Bethel remained steadfast, and she served faithfully until she could no longer do so.

Shirley was deeply involved in various ministries at Bethel, where she left an indelible mark. Her roles included pastoral support, Sunday School teacher, retiree ministry, kitchen committee, usher, deaconess, encouragement ministry, women's ministry, choir member, and more. She
carried each role with love, humility, and a profound sense of purpose. Shirley loved her church, her pastor, and her community with all her heart. Her unwavering faith, warm spirit, and selfless service will be remembered by all who knew her.

Shirley leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories with her family and loved ones. She is survived by her three devoted brothers: Phillip Brown (Carolyn) of Thomasville, GA; William Brown (Brenda) of Virginia Beach, VA; and George C. Brown (Henretta) of Cairo, GA. She also
leaves her loving brothers-in-law: Victor (Blanca), Antonio (Angelina), Roberto, and Enrique (Amelia). Shirley was a mother in love to Gilberto Harris (Zulia), Edwin Knight (Yohana), Rosaura Reid (Errol), and Ivette Harris, and two loving God daughters, Carrie Hatch (James) and Rosa Thompson all of whom brought her immense joy and pride. She also leaves behind a host of beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will forever treasure her warmth, kindness, and unwavering faith.

Shirley peacefully departed this life on January 19, 2025. She was preceded in death by her devoted parents, Edgar and Leola Brown; her brother, Stevan L. Brown; and the love of her life, Gilberto P. Harris.

Her legacy of love, faith, and service to others will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know her.