Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1935
DIED
2020
FUNERAL HOME
Shirley Williams Obituary
Shirley Skinner Williams was born on May 20, 1935 in Elizabeth, NJ, and departed her earthly life on November 29, 2020 in Miami, Florida.
Shirley attended public schools in Elizabeth and graduated from the then all girls Battin High School in 1953. She graduated from Newark State Teacher's College (now Kean University) with her teaching degree in 1957, later receiving her Master's Degree in special education.
In 1957, she married her husband of 63 years, Thomas D. Williams, Jr. and moved to Philadelphia, later settling in Asbury Park, NJ and then Ocean Township, NJ before relocating to Florida in 1995.
Shirley began her teaching career in 1960 in Asbury Park and retired from that same school district in 1992. Among her many memberships and affiliations were The Drifters, Inc., Continental Societies, Inc., Jack and Jill of America, Inc., The National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women's Clubs, Inc., Monmouth Council of Girl Scouts, and of course, her beloved Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., of which she was an active member for 64 years.
Teaching, mentoring, and service defined what she did; family, faith and friendship defined who she was. Shirley and Tom were long standing members of Second Baptist Church in Asbury Park before moving to Florida. She was often heard emphatically saying "I've come this far by faith" and "I have lived a good life".
Shirley was predeceased by her parents, Samuel Secore Skinner and Hattie Travis Skinner, and her only sibling, Joan Skinner Knight.
She leaves to cherish her memories: husband-Tom; son-Thomas D. Williams lll (Rinita); daughters---Wendy Williams Hunter and Wanda Williams Finnie (Bryan); granddaughter—Alexandra Catherine Finnie; grandsons—Travis Bryant Finnie and Kevin Samuel Hunter; great-grand daughter—Bella Therese Finnie; a host of other relatives, and many, many dear friends.
Funeral arrangements were handled in Miami by Range Funeral Home. A celebration of life will be planned for a future date.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Shirley Williams
Sponsored by Range Funeral Home (a.k.a. Oscar L. Range Memorial Chapel).
Aal
March 1, 2024
Wonder shining soul.
R M Avalon
May 24, 2021
I love you lady such a pleasure to watch and see her on her daughters TV show just adorable to be sorely missed miss you rest in peace
M Thompson
March 6, 2021
Very sorry to hear about her passing. My mom is Shirley Thompson. Shirley then Shirley Skinner and my mom were very good friends back in the olden days. Shirley and Shirley. A matter of fact my mom met my dad through a party that she went to with Shirley Skinner. So if it wasn't for Shirley I might not be here lol. My aunts were Pat Joyner and Kay Thompson Payne who was a radio personality on WLIB radio in New York all very good friends Shirley's. AND my grandmother Mildred and Archie Thompson were very close with the Skinner family for years. They all live in Elizabeth NJ. I would just like to offer our deepest condolences to the Williams Family from the Thompson Family. May she rest in Peace.
Mia
March 4, 2021
Rest In Peace angel
Jessie Bell
February 8, 2021
Rest In Peace Soror Shirley
Pamela Dayboch
January 31, 2021
I’m so sorry to hear about the passing of your mom. I know how hard that can be. I wish you peace and the support of friends family and fans during this difficult time.
Pamela Dayboch
January 31, 2021
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Pamela Dayboch
January 31, 2021
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Pamela
January 31, 2021
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Pamela
January 31, 2021
I’m so sorry to hear about the passing of Wendy’s mom.
S. Mann
January 31, 2021
Shirley and her husband seemed like very nice people when they visited their daughters show. My condolences go out to her entire family. R.I.P. Shirley you will be missed.
T.Wright
January 26, 2021
LIKE A DOVE FLOWN AWAY, ONE IS NOT TO GRIEVE IT'S ABSENCE. BUT TO REMEMBER IS MAGNIFICENT BEAUTY, DELICENT PRESENTS AND PURITY" -T.Wright
MAY HER LIFE BE CELEBRATED BY THE ONE'S SHE, CELEBRATED LIFE WITH EACH DAY.
"FOR TO GRIEVE GREAT, IS SYMBOLIC TO HAVE LOVED GREATER".-T.Wright
TO BE BLESSED WITH LOVING PARENTS, IS A BLESS CHILD INDEED.
My sincerest condolences to you Wendy Williams, family members and friends.
Best Regards,
-Charlotte, NC
Subrena E Sullivan
January 20, 2021
I loved watching Wendy's show when Ms. Shirley was a guest. She brought so much joy to the show and I loved how she said Wendy's name. Sending my sincere condolences to the entire Williams family and friends. Fly high Ms. Shirley you and that beautiful smile.❤
Mable Haskins
January 19, 2021
I didn't know Mrs Williams nor her daughter. . I just remember seeing her and her husband seated in the front row of the Wendy Williams Show. I offer my sincerest condolences to the family. You have lost a very special person in your life. I know how difficult that can be. Heaven has gained a very special Angel. Praying for Gods peace for you and your family.
A caring life long fan..
Shirleyrae Williams Reed
January 15, 2021
My heart breaks, I just found my dad's (Buddy Williams-Red Bank NJ) address book and I saw Tom and Shirley Williams number and address and I always loved talking to Shirley and she was a feisty person and enjoyed a conversation and promised that I was going to reach out to the both of them. I am so sorry to hear about her passing. Mr. Williams blessing to you and your family and I will reach out to you soon. Heaven just got a beautiful Angel. much love Shirleyrae
Joanna Hogan
December 31, 2020
Dearest Wendy, I am so sorry that at the time of her passing I hadn't heard she was gone. Wendy, I am so, so sorry for your loss. You have been through such a great amount of losses recently, I pray that God will bless you with the insight of the strength you hold within. Your mama was such a special lady, although I didn't know her personally, I sure knew that from when she would appear on your show and with the relationship you two have. Wendy, you will never lose touch with your mama, love is too strong and it spans any barrier even the one that death can bring. Your memories and your love will tear away every tear and replace it with a beautiful smile and laughter to brighten your day. Wendy, there are so many people in your "public" who really admire you and all those divisions you have mastered to get where you are. Love always.
Denise Wilson Fox
December 29, 2020
I remember Ms. Williams at the family reunions at Marvin and Ruth's home in Springfield. Always welcoming everyone in attendance. Beach time at Belmar and/or Asbury Park. You could always find the William's family. I never saw Ms. Williams without a smile. Family by in-laws!
Janette St Charles
December 27, 2020
I know of Shirley through her daughter's television show. It feels as tho I know her personally. I loved her smile. My heart hurts for her family and I wish them well.
Taylor
December 23, 2020
Rest in Power.
Kayce R Saunders
December 20, 2020
I, of course didn't know Mrs Williams or her daughter . I just remember seeing her and her husband seated in the show. I offer my sincerest condolences to the family. You have lost a very special person in your life. Heaven has gained a very special Angel. Praying for Gods peace and mercy.
A life long fan..
Kayce Saunders
Sandra Dove
December 20, 2020
My deepest condolences to Mr.Williams,Wendy & family. Ms. Shirley will be sorely missed. I will truly miss the joy she gave on the Wendy show. May God send his Angel's of Comfort to each one of you.
Diane
December 20, 2020
I will miss your beautiful smile and your cheerful demeanor you bring wherever you go. Heaven has truly gained an angel. I loved watching you on the show with your lovely husband Tom. May you Rest In Eternal Peace, Mrs Shirley Williams, you will be missed.
Shirley Williams
December 19, 2020
I did not know her personally but I could feel the warmth when ever she was on her daughter's show. When I found out we had the same name it was a good feeling she will be truly missed not to ever see her sit in her seat on Wendy's show
I know the feeling of losing your Mom because I lost mine 35 years ago and the pain is still there it will get easier in time along with prayer Praying for the Williams Family
Evelyn Brown
December 19, 2020
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Evelyn Brown
December 19, 2020
My sincere condolences to Mr. Williams and the Williams family. I know this loss is difficult but I pray God's peace and love will always be with you.
Rest in heaven Mrs Shirley
Lilly
December 18, 2020
God bless the Williams family. I enjoyed hearing about and from Mrs. Williams (and Mr. Williams) on the old Wendy Williams Show on WBLS. I thought Mr. and Mrs. Williams were hilarious for participating on "that" show. She will be missed by so many people that never even had the pleasure of actually meeting her in real life.
Carole Jackson
December 17, 2020
As a Wendy Williams fan, I remember her beautiful smile and ladylike manner ,while visiting her daughter, Wendy Williams' SHOW with her husband ,Wendy's father.
Barbara E Jones
December 17, 2020
Wendy,
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Although I only know your Mom from your Show, it was evident the endearing love you have for her. And she for you.
As someone who lost my Mom many years ago, Trust that she will always be with you. Beautiful memories.
God bless and keep you!
Barbara Edwards Jones, Fort Worth, Texas
Barbara E Jones
December 17, 2020
Wendy,
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Although I only know your Mom from your Show, it was evident the endearing love you have for her. And she for you.
As someone who lost my Mom many years ago, Trust that she will always be with you. Beautiful memories.
God bless and keep you!
Barbara Edwards Jones, Fort Worth, Texas
Sharon Kendrick-Johnson
December 17, 2020
She was such a sweet lady. I will miss our talks. Rest In Peace Shirley. My condolences to Tom and the entire family!
Venita B Whidbee
December 17, 2020
Wendy you're mom will be missed. I truly enjoyed seeing her on your show. I know what it means to lose a parent to death. My Condolences to you and your family.
Brandon Sturgill
December 17, 2020
Rest In Peace Mrs Shirley you’ll be Missed and always loved listening to the story’s about Wendy’s childhood, You’ve raised wonderful children I occasionally talk to Tommy he always has a smile on his face and very friendly he definitely got that from you. I know your Wendy’s guardian Angel now please watch over her and the rest of the family. The lost a Gem but heaven gained a Diamond hopefully I will get the chance to meet you one day in heaven
Shirley R. White
December 16, 2020
Wishing the Williams family comfort and strength with sympathy. May our God of love and peace strengthen you during this difficult time. I will miss my Continental sister with the brightest smile and the warmest hug. We always shared a special hello when we saw one another because we shared the same first name. Such a beautiful soul now resting.
ANGELA JEFFERSON
December 16, 2020
I WILL MISS SEEING THAT BIG SMILE ON WENDY SHOW. SHE APPEAR TO ALWAYS BE IN A HAPPY MOOD. WENDY YOU HAVE MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES.
Elizabeth Jackson
December 15, 2020
Shirley was a wonderful person she taught me daughter and also I worked with her at Bangs Avenue School.
Dana
December 15, 2020
Loved watching her on tv. An inspirational and loving mother. I hope I can be a mother like her. Her life and light shown though to a lady in Canada. Another angel is up in the sky
Sheree Ogilvie
December 15, 2020
I will miss seeing your smiling face on Wendy’s show my you rest in peace.
Bettie Huggins
December 15, 2020
I just love this lady!! She was a happy, caring, kind woman..My prayers to the family...Will miss that bright smile!
Lutricha Davenport
December 15, 2020
Condolences
LaNitra Lee
December 15, 2020
I will miss seeing your smiling face on the Wendy Williams Show. Prayers for your family and friends as I know they will need it to get through this tough time. May you rest in eternal peace!
Mattie Williams
December 15, 2020
I always looked forward to Ms. Shirley, and her husband sitting in their seats on the Wendy Williams show. She will truly be missed.
Asbury Park resident
December 15, 2020
Wendy and family, you're in my prayers.
Rest peacefully Mrs. Shirley....
Ophelia P. Hughley
December 14, 2020
For a Friend:
Shirley was one of my most memorable co-worker and church members. Her lessons were simple and long lasting. She always took the time to help with a word of encouragement or to pass on her skills.
Thank you for sharing your wisdom and strength with me. Love always.
Love; Ophelia P. Hughley and Family
Keitha Thompson
December 14, 2020
Wendy sorry for your loss. I lost my mom this year in February. I'm still reeling from it. Stay strong God will see us through. God bless you and your family
The Switzer's
December 14, 2020
I'm sending much love & prayers to the entire family. Mrs Shirley was a jewel who will forever live in our hearts. Thank you, Wendy, for she her with us. God bless you & your family.
The Switzer's
December 14, 2020
I'm sending much love & prayers to the entire family. Mrs Shirley was a jewel who will forever live in our hearts. Thank you, Wendy, for she her with us. God bless you & your family.
Rena Leakes
December 14, 2020
My sincere condolences to Mr. Williams and the entire Williams family. Rest in Heavenly peace Mrs. Shirley William. Although, I don't personally know you, your daughter Wendy is a friend in my head and I love and respect her and her hustle. Your visits to her show always made me smile because Mother's are a blessing and God sculptures of the young. Rest easy God's good and faithful servant. God bless you.
Rena Leakes
December 14, 2020
Rest in Heavenly peace Mrs. William. Although, I don't personally know you, your daughter Wendy is a friend in my head and I love and respect her and her hustle. Your visits to her show always made me smile because Mother's are God sculptures of the young. Rest easy God's good and faithful servant. God bless you.
Ramona Young
December 14, 2020
My sincere condolences to you Tommy and your entire family. May God comfort you all during this difficult time and the days ahead.
Tiger
December 13, 2020
Cynthia Cody
December 13, 2020
To the entire Williams family: We extend our heartfelt condolences to you at the passing of wife/mother Shirley. Warm memories of her will always be in our minds and on our hearts. Our prayers are with you during this difficult time. Love always.
The Cody Family, Wayside, New Jersey.
Gloria Wright
December 13, 2020
My Sincerest Condolences to Tommy and the family...May God keep you all under his wings and protect you always..Shirley was a lovely person and she will be missed by all...God’s Blessings and Love to the whole family
April Sheffield
December 13, 2020
She was a teacher, a mentor, counselor, advocate, showstopper, fashionista but more so a good example of a public servant of investing back into the community keeping her family involved into the community with not only giving back and serving but setting the example of the purpose of investing back into your community and hard work pays off, with that being said she was Miss SOCIALITE and Mr Tom but however she will not surely be forgotten so may she rest in peace and continue on with her victory with the Lord and walk in those streets of gold in Heaven with No pain but PEACE AMEN..
Sonya K. Cowan (Davis) & family
December 13, 2020
Sending our love and keeping your family in our prayers that God blesses your family in this time of sorrow.
Nick Caruso
December 12, 2020
To the Williams family, my deepest sympathies. Love you Wendy, stay strong ! ❤
Patricia D Jones
December 12, 2020
I would like to offer my sympathies to the Willams family. May Jesus give you that special peace that only he can give. She will live in your heart always and will only be a whisper away.
Showing 1 - 56 of 56 results
Make a Donation
in Shirley Williams's name
Memorial Events
for Shirley Williams
Funeral services provided by:
Range Funeral Home (a.k.a. Oscar L. Range Memorial Chapel)5727 NW 17th Avenue, Miami, FL 33142
How to support Shirley's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Shirley Williams's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
