Shirley Jean King, 83, was born May 26, 1938 in Middlesboro, KY to Charles Andrews Sr. and Ella Mae Wade. Her parents and brothers (Lecil Andrews and William D. Andrews) preceded her in death. She shared 63 years in marriage with Norman V. King. Their marriage was blessed by God and overflowing with love.
Shirley accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age. She loved singing in the choir. She was blessed to do that at Mt. Morriah Baptist Church in Middlesboro, KY and Mt. Olivet Baptist Church in Portland, OR. She enjoyed the lifelong friendships of the ladies serving in the Miriam Circle. She served side by side with her husband, Norman, as a deacon and elder of the church. Shirley actively participated with OASIS - Older Saints Still In Service.
Shirley’s passion was her family. Her contagious smile and mommy hugs enabled her to share sage wisdom with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Their spouses were enveloped with the same unconditional love. She was always ready to cook a great meal to share, while being the family dentist, doctor, and accountant. She was caregiver for her son, Vernon (Jimmy) until his death in 1987. She was a babysitter for many children and considered them her sons and daughters too. Her home was a hub of activity, because you could not help but become attached to her.
She is survived by her loving husband, Norman V. King, Daughters Janice M. Holstine and Desiree’ A. Alberti (husband David) of Portland, OR, Son, Robert Adrian King of Seattle WA
Brother, Charles Andrews Jr of Tucson AZ, Sisters, Sue Ella Yeary of Knoxville, TN, Elizabeth Berry of Kansas City, MO
Grandsons, Andre’ D Alberti (wife Brandie), Anthony D. Alberti (wife Casey), Jesse King, Granddaughters Natasha M. Rao (husband Kabir) , Erica L. Baldwin, Rosemary Bussey (husband Anthony)
Great-grandchildren Anthony Bussey, Aneesa Bussey, Kira Alberti, Chloe Baldwin, Aedan Alberti, Androu Alberti, Sahara Rao, Kellen (Mister) Baldwin, Harper Rao, Arman Rao, Amyah Downey, Mykel Downey, Cameron Alberti, Aldin Alberti, one on the way!
And a host of other relatives and friends who loved her dearly.
Special thank you to the hospice care team! You were fabulous!
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