Shirley Fields

Shirley Fields, 86 of Moundville, passed away December 25, 2024 at Northport Medical Center. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, January 2, 2025 at 2:00 pm at Memory Hill Gardens with Dennis Fields officiating and Magnolia Chapel South directing.

He is preceded in death by his father, William Edward Fields; mother, Laura Burroughs Fields; two sisters, Gladys Freeman Wilson, and Nettie Ruth Fields; brother, Raymond Fields; and great-nephew, Cory Michael Freeman.

Survivors include his wife, Virginia Cottingham Fields; daughters, Letisha Ann Richardson; Robyn Michelle Fields, Angela Jane Fields, and Jennifer Che' Fields; his twin brother, Irvin Fields (Barbara); sisters, Jackie Fields Redding (Billy), and Annie-Earl Jackson (Johnny); grandchildren, Brandon Fields (Brandy), Angela Blaire Fields, Tara Richardson Gray (Cameron), Katie Payne Billings (Brett), Nicholas Presley Ragland, River Hayes Johnston (Alivia) and Cassidy Meagan Johnston; great-grandchildren, Jacie Jo Fields, Kaylee Ann Fields, Lexy Kathryn Fields, Benton Grant Billings, and Forest Brett Billings; and a host of nieces and nephews. 

Shirley Fields, a proud Marine, devoted public servant, and cherished family man, passed away on December 25, 2024, at the age of 86.

Born a twin on September 11, 1938, in Moundville, Alabama, Mr. Fields grew up in a humble household with his parents and six siblings. After graduating from Hale County High School in 1957, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps as a seagoing Marine, serving aboard the USS Canberra and USS Intrepid. His military service took him across the world and instilled a deep sense of discipline, duty, and commitment within him. He was honorably discharged as a Lance Corporal.

In 1959, Mr. Fields returned to Alabama and settled in Tuscaloosa, where he began working at Bryce Hospital. It was there that he met Virginia "Ginny" Fields, his love and lifelong companion. They married in 1960, sharing 64 joyful years, raising four daughters, and embracing seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Alongside Mrs. Fields, he also opened their home to foster children, providing them with care, stability, and unconditional love.

In 1961, Mr. Fields joined the Tuscaloosa Police Department, where he earned a reputation for his sharp intuition, exceptional people skills, and unrelenting work ethic. Rising through the ranks, he became a detective with the Tuscaloosa County Homicide Unit. Respected by his peers and community, he retired as Captain after decades of distinguished service. His exemplary career was recognized in 1995 when he received the Liberty Bell Award from the Tuscaloosa Bar Association, an honor bestowed upon those who significantly contribute to the justice system and promote a greater understanding of government and civic responsibility. He was also honored by having one of his solved cases published in “True Detective” magazine.

Returning to his hometown of Moundville after retiring from law enforcement, Mr. Fields built a family home that became a beloved gathering place. He would soon return to investigative work as a private detective with the Tuscaloosa County Public Defender's Office, continuing to serve his community with fairness and compassion until he later retired a second time.

An avid outdoorsman, Mr. Fields found joy in hunting, fishing, and shooting, often sharing these hobbies with his grandchildren. He also enjoyed woodworking in his shop, tending to his garden, and spending time with his beloved dog, Charlie. Shirley Fields leaves behind a legacy of service, strength, and love. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the privilege to know him.

Pallbearers: Brandon Fields, Nicholas Ragland, River Johnston, Mike Freeman, Tony Redding, John Jackson

Honorary Pallbearers: Bobby Woodridge, Adolf South, Bobby Johnston, Dorman Adams (deceased), Matt Cornelson, Hayden Hall, Lynn Wyatt, Toni Lavender, Jennifer Ritts, Courtney Johnson, Harvey P. Cottingham, Tuscaloosa Police Department, Tuscaloosa County Homicide Unit, Tuscaloosa County Office of Public Defender, Hale County EMS, Pine Ridge friends and neighbors.