Shirley Black

Shirley Louise Black (née Denney), age 84, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2025, in Merritt Island, Florida.

Born on June 18, 1940, in Norfolk, Virginia, Shirley's life was a gentle tapestry woven with quiet strength and enduring love. She was the beloved wife of the late Gayle Black and a devoted mother to Gayle Black, Michael Black, Steven Black, and the late Kathleen Black.

Shirley found joy in the simple rhythms of everyday life. A passionate reader, she often sought comfort in the pages of her favorite books. Her kitchen was a place of warmth and welcome, where affection lingered like the scent of cinnamon. During her time as a school cafeteria worker, she nourished more than appetites-offering kindness with every tray served.

Her playful spirit lit up at the slot machines, where laughter echoed amid flashing lights and spinning reels.

She embraced her extended family wholeheartedly. Shirley welcomed Jodi (wife of Gayle) and Melinda (wife of Michael) into her heart as daughters. She was a proud grandmother to Amelia, Jonathan, Micah, Joshua, and Jacob; step-grandmother to Colleen, Nyssa, Eric, and Alex; great-grandmother to Johnny, Ethan, Jake, Jaxen, Jordan, Wyatt, Ryleigh, and Maizy; and great-great-grandmother to Luke.

A Memorial Service will be held on June 19, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Calvary Chapel, 3500 N. Courtenay Parkway, Merritt Island, FL 32953.

Shirley's legacy lives on in shared stories around dinner tables and in hearts touched by her quiet generosity. May her memory bring peace and warmth to all who carry it forward.