Shirley Ann Lewis, also known as Shelly, was born in Edison, Georgia on November 18, 1950. She was the sixth of seven children born to the late Otha Foster and Ellen D. Foster.

She was educated in the Dougherty County School System. Throughout school, she was an inquisitive student who demonstrated exceptional potential and was a ray of sunshine to teachers and peers.

From a very early age, Shelly was immersed in the Christian community that would be her lifelong support. As a youth, she accepted Christ as her personal savior and began her journey with the Lord. She was a dedicated member of the Mount Calvary Baptist Church of Baconton, Georgia, and was unwavering in her Christian stewardship. Blessed with the gift of sing, Shelly was always willing to share her angelic voice wherever she trod—forever to the Glory of God.

In 1970, she was united in holy matrimony to her childhood sweetheart, Alfred Lewis, Jr. Their union was blessed with two loving children, Antonio and Cowanda. Shirley was a godly woman who loved her family and set an example for her children and grandchildren that will lead them throughout their lives.

Shelly adored children, and she touched many lives in the community through her services as owner and director of Lewis Daycare. She was perpetually kind and patient as she gently guided, inspired, and nurtured young minds and talents for numerous years.

Known to have a very caring spirit, Shirley was a strong but humble lady with a heart of gold. She was a trusted friend and confidant, would lend a listening ear to those in need of compassion and support, and eagerly looked forward to events with family and friends that brought them together in love and harmony.

Regardless of the circumstances, she was always there to lend a helping hand without expecting anything in return. Her home was a refuge for many as she freely opened the umbrella of unconditional love and generosity; thus, leaving a permanent impression in the hearts of everyone around her.

In the early dawning of the day on February 20, 2023, Shirley peacefully transitioned to eternal rest with the Lord. In addition to her parents and her beloved husband, she was preceded in death by four loving siblings.

She leaves to mourn her passing and celebrate her life that was well lived, two loving children, Antonio Lewis (Melita) of Leesburg, GA and Cowanda Ann Lewis-Watson (William) of Baconton, GA; her beautiful granddaughters, Khali Shirlene Watson and Karla Alfreda Watson; siblings, Estella Marie Foster of Albany, GA and Deborah Foster-Drake of Tallahassee, FL; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and two special godsons, Anthony Calhoun and William Lee Key, Jr. both of Baconton, GA.