Shirley Marie Brown

Shirley Marie Sturgeon Brown, born on December 4, 1941, in Deberry, Texas, was the third oldest of 13 children to Deacon Earnest William Benjamin Sturgeon Sr., Mattie Mae Grimes Sturgeon, and her stepmother Jessie Mae Ford Sturgeon McCoy.

Shirley's faith journey began at a young age when she accepted Christ and was baptized at Greater Ideal Baptist Church in Midland, Texas. Under the guidance of Rev. Issac M. Woodard, she served diligently, teaching Sunday School, Bible study, and singing in the choir. Later in life, she joined Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church, where she was an active member under Pastor Curtis Joiner, exemplifying a deep, unwavering faith. Christ was active, alive and evident in her life.

Shirley graduated from Carver High School in Midland, Texas, and went on to study cosmetology, obtaining her beautician's license. She then worked at Lee Street Beauty Shop for over 30 years, known not only for her skilled hands but also her compassionate heart. In her chair, clients found a confidante who prayed for and counseled them with kindness and honesty. Her steadfast faith guided her to uplift all who crossed her path.

Shirley shared her life with her beloved husband, Ellis Odell Brown Jr., with whom she had a daughter, Sheila Brown, and a stepdaughter, Glenda Valentine. Shirley's legacy of service, strength, and kindness remained strong throughout her 30-year career and beyond.

On November 6, 2024, Shirley answered the eternal call from the Savior and joined her parents, husband, stepdaughter, and several siblings in eternal rest. She leaves behind her daughter, Sheila Brown of Midland Tx; goddaughter Melissa Pertile of Midland Tx; grandchildren Gabriel Dudley, Raja Valentine (Tasha Valentine), and Tracy Brown; her siblings, including Gloria Conley Jones (Rev. Julius Jones) of Midland Tx, Apostle William Sturgeon Jr. of Kansas City, Sonora Sturgeon and Rev. Joseph Sturgeon Sr. of Omaha, Pastor Alonzo Sturgeon Sr. (Evangelist Carrie Sturgeon) of Denver, Debra Sturgeon Hall of Omaha, and a loving extended family of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. Her life was a beautiful testament to faith, resilience, and love for family and community.