Shirley Diana Walker was born in Albany, Georgia May 12, 1958.  She was the loving daughter of the late Albert L. Walker and Lillie M. Trowell.

During the early years of her life, she attended the public schools of Dougherty County.  She completed her education at Riley Institute and was awarded a high school diploma. Shirley gained very valuable life skills from her educational experiences and various extra-curricular activities.

Very early in life, Shirley was taught the Word of God.  As a youth, she accepted Christ as her Savior; was baptized; and united with Shiloh Baptist Church.  Throughout life's journey, she remained humble and prayerful.  In later adult years, she united with the Oakridge Baptist Church where she blended her voice with members of the choir to praise God and minister in song.

Shirley was a devoted mother who looked well to the ways of her household.  She was often described as a stern yet supportive mother who had an endless reservoir of love for her children, and was always available with a hug or listening ear.  When it came to work, she was a very conscientious individual who was extremely methodical and precise in all that she did.  As an employee of Hot Dot King, Nut Tree Pecan Company, and several other businesses in the Albany area, she put everything she had into her work to ensure that no task was ever left undone.

Known to many as a kind and generous lady with a big heart, Shirley opened the umbrella of her love and affection in countless ways.  She had a nurturing  spirit, was always willing to share her experiences with others, stood ready to lend a helping hand, and graciously opened her heart and home to family and friends.  Shirley was full of energy, stayed on the move, and was well organized; everything had its place!  She will be greatly missed for her caring spirit; and her steadfastness as a mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend.

On March 31, 2024, Shirley transitioned from this earthly life to eternal peace and rest.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her grandson, Jalen R. Walker; and five siblings, Joseph Trowell, Gus Jones, Sr., Samuel L. Jones, Walter J. Green, and Rosa M. Johnson.

Loving memories will forever remain in the hearts of her sons, Tyrone D. Walker, Carl L. Walker, Reco R. (Stephanie) Walker, and James (Sharya) Washington, Jr.; siblings, Ollie Green, Barbara Green, Ruby Walker, Gloria  Davis, and George Walker; grandchildren, Sherdria, Carl Walker, Jr., Jaquala Walker, Jaquentae Wshington, Jaquontay Washington, Janajah Wshington, Jaden Washington, Joy Wilson, and Jariya Brown; great grandchildren, Jamya, Jordan, Jasmine, and Journey; a special friend, Solomon Griffin; and three stepdaughters, Janautica Griffin, Tcondria Griffin, and Scondria Griffin.