Jennie Lee Shirley

Mrs. Jennie Lee Shirley departed this life at the age of 86 years-old on Thursday, December 29, 2016 surrounded by her loved ones. Jennie was born on August 10, 1930 in Jackson County, Georgia to Harold and Alberta “Bertie” Dukes.

Jennie married James S. Shirley and to this union five children, Sandra, Angelia, David, Harold, and James were born.

Prior to becoming a full-time homemaker, caring for generations of children, and as a caregiver for community friends and children, Jennie worked in the poultry industry. As a member of the St. John Baptist Church, she loved singing in the Sanctuary Choir and volunteered in the Love Kitchen.

She loved to dance with her brother and always loved to listen to the music of Al Green. Mrs. Shirley will always be remembered for her “got you” humor while never having a problem speaking what was on her mind.

Jennie is preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Alberta “Bertie” Dukes, and brothers, Harold Dukes, Jr, Larry Dukes, and Harry Dukes.

She leaves to cherish her memories her husband of 64 years, James S. Shirley; daughters Sandra Philips, Angelia Wayman (Phillip), Gainesville Ga; sons, David (Debora) Shirley, Harold (Yetta) Shirley, and James A. Shirley (Patricia) , Gainesville Ga.; brother, Bobby (Betty)Dukes; sisters, Gussie Dukes, Lillie Summerour, Gainesville, Ga, Marie Kirk (Benny), Atlanta, Georgia; 12 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; 3 great- great grandchildren; sisters-in law, Lou Jean Jones, Norfolk, Virginia, Deborah Mack, Linda Faye Webb, Connie(Donnie) Sosebee, , Gainesville, Ga.; brothers-in law, Robert Lee Shirley, Long Beach California, Victor Keith, Gainesville, Ga.; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 5, 2017 at St. John Baptist Church at 11:00 AM.  Visitation will be held on  Wednesday, January 4, 2017 at Wimberly & Jackson Funeral Home from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM. Professional Services Entrusted to Wimberly & Jackson Funeral Home.