Shirley Crawford

Shirley Jean Chenault was born on September 12, 1943, in Cincinnati Ohio. She was raised by her parents, Sylvester Lee Chenault Sr. and Artie Marie Morton, Shirley was the fourth of ten children. Shirley was called home to eternal rest on February 12, 2025 surrounded by her children and grandchildren.

Shirley attended Samuel Ach Junior High and McCall High School, where she developed a passion for sewing, a skill she perfected throughout her life. Her early career included working as a seamstress at Shillito’s Department Store. Later, she transitioned into an administrative role, serving as a secretary for a construction company. She dedicated her younger years to the selfless act of fostering infants, a testament to her compassionate spirit.

Beyond her professional life, Shirley possessed a vibrant spirit. She loved listening to music, dancing, and singing. Family was paramount to her; she was a maternal figure to not only her own but also too many of her siblings and others, earning her the affectionate title of “Mom.”

Shirley’s warm personality and generous spirit were reflected in everything she did. Shirley would give her last dime to help others. She was loving, sweet and sharp and always looked out for her family. She touched the lives of many with her generosity, wisdom and caring soul. She will truly be missed. She had an unwavering belief in the importance of family and community.

Shirley dedicated her life to serving God and was a highly active member of Mt. Moriah Baptist Church in Lincoln Heights, where she served as a Willing Worker under the leadership of Pastor J.W. Jones before becoming ill.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Sylvester and Artie Chenault, and siblings Janet, Butch, Donald, Joyce, Jerry, and Danny. She is survived by her six children, Kim (Henry), Karen, Bernard, Labron (Garcia), Cindy, and Tammy; 22 grandchildren David (Angel), Dion (Ambra), Gary (Miranda), Camilah, Camisha (Cindy), Alexis, Alaina, Breaz (Erin), Brandon, Brian, Nikki, Brittany, Troy, Clarissa, Delisa, Nygel, Bernard Jr., Antonio, Terri, David, Labron, and Destiny; a host of great-grandchildren; and siblings Robert, Michael (Vickie), and Harry Chenault.

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