Ms. Shirley Garrison

Ms. Shirley Garrison Obituary "To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die"
Shirley Garrison, a beloved advocate, educator, and community leader, passed away surrounded by the love of family and friends. Born on May 23, 1949, in Pembroke, Georgia, Shirley grew up as the fourth child in a close-knit family that nurtured her resilience, passion for justice, and deep commitment to uplifting others.
The daughter of Leo Garrison of Willie, Georgia, and Juanita (Stephens) Garrison of Groveland, Georgia, Shirleys journey began in the small towns of Georgia. In 1955, she moved to Savannah with her sister Betty, where she began her education and developed an enduring dedication to equality. A graduate of Savannah High School in 1967, Shirleys involvement with the NAACP began early, demonstrating her courage as she stood on picket lines for civil rights.
Shirleys dedication to service continued through an impressive academic career. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Special Education from the City College of New York in 1984, followed by a Masters in Special Education for Emotionally Disturbed Students in 1987. Recognizing her calling to support vulnerable populations, Shirley achieved a Masters in Social Work from Fordham University in 1991 and became a licensed clinical social worker that same year.
Her professional journey was marked by a series of leadership roles showcasing her tireless service dedication. As Director of Quality Assurance at Unique People Services, Shirley improved care for individuals living with mental health challenges, HIV/AIDS, and developmental disabilities. At Weston United Community Renewal, she served as Managing Director of Residential Services, supporting formerly homeless adults in overcoming mental health and substance use challenges. For over a decade, Shirley worked at Lenox Hill Womens Shelter, where she led efforts to support homeless women facing mental health and substance abuse issues.
Shirley's expertise included post-9/11 recovery efforts, where she served as a Senior Consultant for Project Liberty with the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. In this capacity, she supported FEMA-funded agencies that assisted New Yorkers in need. As the Director of Residential Services at FEGS, her leadership transformed programs benefitting hundreds of individuals. Her strong advocacy for human rights, quality care, and dedication to service is evident in the numerous awards she received from state funders and organizations, solidifying her legacy as an advocate for vulnerable populations.
Even after her retirement, Shirley remained committed to service. Upon returning to Georgia, she partnered with Savannah State University in 2015 to bring interns to the Savannah Branch of the NAACP, strengthening its mission to serve the community.
Shirley Garrison-Jabbi leaves behind a legacy of compassion, advocacy, and resilience. She was preceded in death by her parents, Leo Garrison Sr. and Juanita Garrison; her husband, Larry Thomas; her sister, Betty Garrison; and her brothers, Leo Garrison Jr. and Joseph Owes. She is survived by her son, Lawrence Thomas, of Pembroke, GA; her sister, Gwendolyn Watkins, of Washington, DC; her brothers, Ronald Garrison and Jessie Garrison, of Pembroke, GA; her former husband, Jabbi Alhagi, of New York City; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and friends.
Shirleys remarkable life of service and love will forever be remembered for the countless lives she touched. May her legacy inspire future generations, and may she rest in peace.
Visitation will be held on Friday, November 22, 2024 from 5:00p.m.-6:00p.m. at Craig R. Tremble Funeral Home Chapel, 66 Ledford Street, Pembroke, GA 31321.
Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, November 23, 2024 at 11:00a.m. at Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church, 185 Poplar Street, Pembroke, GA 31321. Rev. Dr. Francys Johnson, Pastor/Eulogist.
Interment will be at the Steven Grove Cemetery, Cemeteries Rd, Pembroke, GA 31321.
We will adhere to CDC guidelines.
Friends may sign the online register book at www.craigrtremblefuneralhome.com.
You may send flowers to the family through our floral store, an independent florist will make delivery according to your instructions.
Celebration of Life services are entrusted to the care of Craig R. Tremble Funeral Homes, Inc., Pembroke Chapel, 66 Ledford Street, Pembroke, GA 31321
Services
Visitation
Friday
November 22, 2024
5:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Craig R. Tremble Funeral Homes, Inc., Pembroke Chapel, 66 Ledford Street, Pembroke, GA 31321
66 Ledford Street
Pembroke, GA 31321
Celebration of Life Service
Saturday
November 23, 2024
11:00 AM
Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church
185 Poplar Street
Pembroke, GA 31321
Interment following celebration of life service
Steven Grove Cemetery, Pembroke
Cemeteries Rd
Pembroke, GA 31321 To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Ms. Shirley, please visit our Tree Store.