Shirley was born to the Union of Willie and Viola Armstrong in Georgetown, South Carolina. She was raised by her grandmother Adeline Armstrong. Shirley has touched so many lives during her years with us, and we are deeply honored to share some thoughts about what she meant to her surviving sister and family. Like many of you here today, we will always remember Shirley for her incredible generosity of spirit, sense of humor, and wisdom.

She was baptized at an early age and she loved the Lord and always had a scripture ready for you. She loved sharing and teaching the gospel. She attended Choppe Elementary School.

From there she left to attend high school in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Shirley was always about family being together.

She loved family reunions and was loved by everyone. Shirley had one daughter, Eugina Armstrong who preceded her in death. Three brothers that preceded her, Holly, Thomas and Willie Armstrong.

She is survived by one granddaughter, a niece, a sister and last surviving sibling, Jenelle Armstrong of Vallejo, California and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and loving friends.

When we think of Shirley, certain moments stand out so vividly. I remember when we were teens living with our grandmother we'd go out to our uncles club, we had a curfew to be in by, and if I didn't leave when she was ready she would leave me there because she was not going to get in no trouble for me. When Shirley would fly out and visit with her sister, Janelle Armstrong and family in California we always had a good time with laughs and reliving memories that never die.

We always had a schedule to keep but for some reason we always ended up not keeping it because we just couldn't stop and go to bed.

Shirley was someone who could find joy in any situation and who always put others first. Shirley approached life with an unwavering belief that every day was a gift to be treasured.

Shirley's integrity, compassion, and determination inspired everyone around her. Many of us benefited from Shirley's advice.

In closing, Shirley showed us how to live a life of purpose and joy. Though we mourn her loss deeply now, and celebrate her life today. We can honor her memory by carrying forward her spirit of generosity, her commitment to family, and her ability to find beauty in everyday moments.

Shirley would want us to remember her with smiles rather than tears, to take care of each other, and to appreciate the precious gift of life. Thank you, Shirley for showing us what it means to live a life well-lived.

You will live forever in our minds and hearts. For now we won't say goodbye, but we'll see you later.

A celebration of Shirley's life will be held on Monday, June 30, 2025 at 11am at Hamden Memorial Funeral Home, 1300 Dixwell Avenue, Hamden, CT. Viewing in Hamden Memorial from 10-11am. Burial to follow at Hamden Plains Cemetery, Hamden, CT. Condolences may be expressed at hamdenmemorialfuneralhome.com.