Shirley Ann Jones (Tampa, Florida)

Ms. Shirley Ann Jones passed away Thursday, February 29, 2024, at Tampa General Hospital in Tampa, Florida at the age of 70 years old. She was born Saturday, August 1, 1953, in Bakersfield, California. The daughter of John H. Jones, Sr. and Rosie Lee Pigues Jones.

Shirley was a resident of Lansing Michigan until she retired and relocated to Tampa, Florida to be near her sister that she affectionately called, “Jane”. Shirley accepted Christ as her personal savior early in life and was a Bible Scholar. She was a member of Lighthouse Ministries in Riverview Florida until her passing. Shirley received her primary education in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and East St. Louis, Illinois and later earned her GED from Vocational Rehab. Shirley went on to earn an associate degree from Lansing Community College in Human Services and Substance Abuse and attended Michigan State University and Hillsborough Community College for Social Work. Shirley was a lifelong volunteer. She volunteered with St. Lawrence Hospital for many years. She most recently was a volunteer for AmeriCorps Seniors and Service where she served the U.S. Veterans. She was previously employed by Care Unlimited and Home Health Professionals until her retirement. Shirley had a smile that brightened the room, and she was always positive despite any issues she was having. She loved helping others and was very loving and giving to all who met her. Shirley never met a stranger. She only met friends and would often advise that we never knew when we were meeting and entertaining angels unaware. Shirley loved listening to music of all genres and dancing, she loved thrifting, cooking, grilling, reading, playing electronic games, including double dragon, candy crush and online spades. She would go to the casino and would frequently win and share her winnings with family and friends. She loved dressing fashionably regardless of the occasion, from going to the store to attending a black-tie affair. She was a diva and fashionista! She loved bright and vibrant colors as they were her signature look and she would match from head to toe. We often debated over her large sock and earring collection. She loved spending time with her babies who affectionately called her “Shuvy” which included her grandchildren, great grandchildren and nieces and nephews. You could often find children either on her foot pedal or her lap. Shirley was very knowledgeable with medical advice. We would call her to diagnose illness and give advice on all ailments. Saying Shirley will be missed is an understatement. She was the life of any party and lived life to the fullest. She was an inspiration to all who met her, and we will see her on the other side. We know she was welcomed by a host of family and friends she crossed over on the last day in February, Leap Year! May Shirley rest in the sunshine of God that she loved and sought daily.

She leaves to cherish her memory her daughter, Rosie Lee (May) Jones of Southfield, Michigan; grandson (whom she raised) Cordarius LaQuinn Jones of Lansing, Michigan; two granddaughters, Albanei (Lorenzo) JaQuece Glenn_and Breiona JaShariel Angelique Glenn; three great-grandsons, Adrian Jones, Kaedin Jones, Boston Glenn and three great-granddaughters, Bronx Russey, Amiyah Chatman and Aleena McDonald; sister, Jawanda (Brian) Lark of Lansing, Michigan; brother, William T. Jones of Joliet, Illinois; aunt, Mary Jones of Madison, Illinois; 5 sisters-in-law, Annabelle, Dorothy, Carolyn, Gloria and LaVonda Jones; brother-in-law, George Wilson of Tampa, Florida; many nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends including honorary Goddaughter, Tajh Chatman; her Golden Girls, Crystal, Virginia, Carol, Pearl, Annabelle and Saundra and her lifelong friend, Nathaniel Dandridge of Decatur.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Rosie; two sisters, Josephine Mukes and Jannie Wilson; 6 brothers, Joe, Nate, Dan, Curt, Lemmie and John Jones; the love of her life, Donald Hale and many other relatives and friends that will welcome Shirley on the other side.

The family would like to express special thanks to Tampa General Hospital, Danay, Crystal and Magelis for their excellent care of Shirley.