Shirley Back

1937 - 2006

Shirley Back left us Monday, Feb. 20, 2006.

Memorial service: 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 18, at Momsy's, along with visitation.

Memorials: In lieu of flowers, memorials may be offered in her memory to the following: multiple sclerosis, cancer, pemphigus, lupus or Parkinson's societies or UNT Health Science Center.

Shirley was born in Baird on March 3, 1937. She and her family moved to Fort Worth in 1944 and lived in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Her true calling came when she began employment with Cost Plus and met L.A. Henderson, past CEO of Pier One. The company merger continued her opportunity in retail management at Pier One. Shirley Back was the first woman manager for Pier One Imports and she lived and breathed the PO retail business and received several awards for her successes.

Over the years, multiple sclerosis took its toll; however, she was given the gift of a sharp mind until the last days. With the cooperation of her physician extraordinaire, Dr. Robert Kelly, she fully participated in her treatment program. We honor Dr. Kelly for his dedication to her physically, emotionally and spiritually, along with Dr. Roger Gleason. Advantage Health Care and Integracare are honored for their care over many years.

Her last hours were spent at James L. West Center where the staff gently attended to her, along with friends and family.

Shirley was preceded in death by her father, Walker H. Norvell Jr.; and grandparents, Andrew J. and Bettie Lee Hopkins, Walker H. Norvell Sr. and Anna Reich Norvell.

Survivors: Her loving and dedicated mother, Gussie O. Norvell; brothers, Dallas J. Norvell of Austin and Walker H. III and Freda Norvell of Fort worth; sister, La Donna and husband, Jimmie Morgan of Azle; former husband, Al Back of Dallas; nieces and nephews; and a circle of lifelong friends.