Shirley M. Black

Shirley M. Black, of Roanoke, Va., dedicated daughter, wife mother and grandmother and a friend of many, traded her earthly wings for Heavenly ones on Thursday, September 2, 2010, at the age of 75. The love of her life, James, preceded her in death by four years, after 44 years of marriage. She nurtured him through serious illnesses for years, always thankful that she was able to do so, and with a smile on her face. They are reunited in their Heavenly home.
She was born in Salem, Va. to the late Robert Lee Martin and Ida May Martin. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Andrew Durward Martin. Her family was her pride and joy. She beamed when she bragged on her children and grandchildren. She was fortunate to have a long weekend with her daughter and granddaughters recently. Her words were, "They were the happiest two days that I can remember". Her devotion to her family was unconditional and everlasting.
She is survived by a son, Curtis Andrew Black and wife, Martha, of Yelm, Washington; a daughter, Kimberly Black Smith and husband, Joel, of Richmond, Virginia; also surviving is a special cousin, Fred May. Her granddaughters include Alex Lee Black, Andrea Black Gebhart, Ashley Mercedes Black, Laura May Black, Alysha Smith Hogsett, Cori Elizabeth Smith, and Allison Ann Smith. Her favorite pastime was her flower garden. She loved her home and was so proud to be able to stay there. Loving friends made that possible over the last three years, and she was so grateful. She had many good memories and friends in her Cave Spring neighborhood also. She was the lovely lady cutting grass in a dress and high heels. She often said, "My mother raised a lady". But she was also the neighbor carrying a meal or baked goods, mailing cards and "Doing others as you would have them do unto you". She never forgot anyone's birthday. Shirley was a woman of incredible integrity, living her Christian faith daily, no matter the circumstances.
One can't celebrate her life without mentioning the core of her existence-her church. She was a member of Salem Baptist Church for 75 years. During that time, she taught Sunday school. She quoted scriptures many times to help others in time of distress, as well as praying for them. Celebrating her life is joyful, as she lived it! She had cherished friends that have been like family during her illness. Because of their love for her, she never had to ask for help, they were always there. That circle of friends was large, which was a testament to her life. She often spoke of her friends as angels sent as an answer to her prayers. Those who were touched by her life will carry those cherished moments forever. As a devout Christian, she was a role model for not only her family, but for many children, whom she took care of for years in her home. Each child was treated with love, compassion and untiring care. Many were in her care from infancy to school age. Their lives were started in a nurturing environment. While raising her family and taking care of her mother, Shirley dedicated her life to children in another way-the school system. She was the voice and advocate for thousands, volunteering in schools, PTA's, etc. for over 30 years. Schools in Roanoke County, especially the Cave Spring area, RCOS and Arnold Burton Vocational School benefitted not only from her fund raising ability, but her relentless energy spent in the schools. The positions she held ranged from Ways and Means to President at all levels, including local, regional and state, thus making a widespread difference. She carried herself with dignity, grace elegance and sophistication. But she did not hesitate to say what was on her mind, especially if it involved children.
Some of the local committees she served on included curriculum, text book selection, length of school year, arts in schools and vocational education. She was a voice also for teachers and other school personnel, often going to Richmond on legislative matters. She was respected by superintendents, principals, teachers, and peers. Even though she did not have a child with disabilities, she advocated for their rights for years, serving on Special Education advisory boards, but more importantly, giving hugs in the schools. The family would like to thank Dr. Gene Godwin who was not only a physician for years, but a friend, as well as his staff, for their dedication to Shirley. They would also like to thank Dr. Swanson, Dr. Boyd, and Carilion Hospice for their care. Also, thanks and gratitude to our special nurse, Pam Belcher, and special friend, Rita Watson.
The family will receive friends at Oakey's South Chapel on Brambleton Ave. from 4 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, September 5, 2010. Memorial services will be at Salem Baptist Church at 3 p.m. Tuesday, September 7, 2010. The Rev. Everett Kier and The Rev. Lou Bennett will officiate. The family requests that flowers be omitted, and memorials be made to the Youth Group of Salem Baptist Church. Arrangements by Oakey's South Chapel. 1-540-989-3131