Shirley Ann McMeans Mitchell

Born August 19, 1941, in Westfield, Alabama, Shirley was the beloved daughter of the late Mr. J.C. McMeans and Evelyn McMeans. She was the oldest of six children, and throughout her life, she carried herself with quiet strength, dignity, and deep devotion to those she loved.
She accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age at St. Paul A.M.E. Church in Westfield, Alabama. Shirley was married and devoted to Joe Mitchell for 55 years, until his passing in 2019.

Shirley was an exceptional student, graduating as Salutatorian of the Westfield High School Class of 1959. She later pursued her calling to serve others at the Grady Memorial Hospital School of Nursing, graduating magna cum laude in 1963. In 1964, she began working at the VA Medical Center, where she dedicated over 30 years to caring for our nation's veterans before retiring in 1995. Alongside her civilian nursing career, she achieved the rank of Captain in the United States Army Reserve.

More than anything, Shirley cared dearly for her family. A nurse in both profession and spirit, she lovingly tended to those around her, always ready to comfort, encourage, and nurse her loved ones back to health when needed. She will be remembered for her selflessness, generosity, kind heart, excellent cooking, and gorgeous dimples.

Shirley leaves to cherish her memory her daughters, Tonya Mitchell and Joleita Owens; three grandchildren, Karl Owens, Jr., Bianca Mitchell (Kamaya), and Jolissa Owens; six great-grandchildren, Montana Owens, Jace Owens, Omari Smith, Khalyni Williams, Kawhi Williams, and Jakai Smith; her siblings, the late J.C. McMeans, Jr. (Flora), Emma Carruth (Willie), Alvin McMeans, Barbara Swift, and Bruce McMeans; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.