Shirley Marie Morris, beloved sister, friend, and soul of deep spiritual grace, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2025 at the age of 84.
Born on November 21, 1940, in Fort Worth, Texas, Shirley was a proud graduate of Arlington Heights High School. She continued her education at the University of Texas at Austin, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in English -- a testament to her love of language and learning.
Shirley's strength and resilience shone through even during the challenges of her early life. Though the family faced many difficult times, Shirley stood out as a beacon of determination and dignity. She was especially proud when she took to the skies as a stewardess for American Airlines, achieving her dream come true.
Her life was filled with both love and loss. Finding her way to California, she met and married Jack Morris. Their love, though eventually changed by the passage of time and differences in spiritual paths, was marked by mutual care, respect and companionship.
Shirley's heart never stopped giving. When her brother faced the despair of life's uncertainty, she welcomed him into her home without hesitation. Her compassion and encouragement helped Glenn find stability, leading him to enlist in the United States Navy. He eventually built a life and career of his own, as well as meeting the love of his life, Donna. She and Jack even made the trip to Illinois to attend their wedding, where Shirley served as a bridesmaid to her new sister-in-law, Donna, a heartfelt and precious memory that will forever be remembered, treasured and cherished.
Eventually, upon relocating to and settling in
Virginia Beach, Virginia, Shirley purchased a home, once again found joy in the companionship of a kind and loving man, and proudly rose to a position serving her country within the U.S. Naval Office of Virginia in an administrative assistant capacity, where she worked until she retired. Her deep spirituality remained a constant source of strength and solace, guiding her through life's transitions.
Staying connected through telephone calls, it eventually became clear to Glenn and Donna that Shirley's health was declining, and her mind and memory began to wander into confusion. Comfort is taken knowing she is finally at peace, free from the burdens of her illness, and watching over us with joy in her heart.
Her brother graciously thanks the Lord for taking good care of his big sister. He knows she has now found peace and joy in heaven and can only imagine the beautiful reunion that awaits them when he, too, is eventually welcomed home by Jesus.
Shirley is survived by her loving brother Glenn Holbrook and his wife, Donna, of Roselle, Illinois.
A celebration of Shirley's life will be held at 9am Tuesday, April 29, 2024 at Altmeyer Funeral Home, Southside Chapel. Burial will follow in Forest Lawn Cemetery, Norfolk, Virginia. You may visit her Tribute page at AltmeyerFH.com to share memories and offer condolences to the family.
Farewell, dear Shirley. Until we meet again.
Altmeyer Funeral Home, Southside Chapel, 5033 Rouse Drive,
Virginia Beach, Virginia is honored to serve Shirley's family. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Shirley, please visit our floral store.