A Legacy of Love and Faith
In 1946, Shirley found herself entering foster care at the tender age of 11. Her mother, overwhelmed by the responsibility of raising five children, made the difficult decision to seek help to care for Shirley and her siblings.
Though she was scared and felt alone, Shirley's life took a turn for the better when she arrived at ABCH. The caring and nurturing environment became a beacon of hope for her. For the first time in her young life, Shirley experienced a sense of security and stability. Her daughter Rozanne shares of her mother’s experience, “My mother always felt that ABCH was life-changing for her because she was cared for with plenty to eat, clothes to wear, church to attend, and so much more. So many Baptists in the state helped clothe and feed the children for school, provided birthday gifts, Christmas gifts, week-long vacations, and more.” The love and support she received helped her heal from the wounds of her past.
In this time of healing, Shirley found peace from the Ultimate Healer, and accepted Christ into her heart. This was a pivotal moment in her life. “My mother felt that ABCH was the best thing for her, and again, she was so thankful for the opportunities afforded to her at the Children’s Homes and her introduction to the Lord,” said Rozanne.
As Shirley blossomed, she crossed paths at church with a kind-hearted young man named Ray. Their connection was instant, and their love grew stronger with each passing day. Eventually, Shirley and Ray got married (at the home in Troy), embarking on a remarkable journey that would span six decades until he passed away in 2018. Their marriage was a testament to the enduring power of love and commitment.
Shirley was able to prevent the cycle of foster care in her family. She and Ray raised their four children in a Christ-centered home. Shirley's own experiences inspired her to provide a nurturing and stable environment for her children, ensuring they never had to endure the hardships she faced.
In March 2023, Shirley peacefully passed away, leaving behind a legacy that continues today. Her unwavering faith and love for her family will be remembered. Her story will forever inspire others to make a difference in the lives of children in need, ensuring that Shirley's legacy lives on for generations to come.
To learn how you can make a difference today and for generations to come, visit here.