Shirley Ann Nettles

The Beautiful Life of Shirley Ann Nettles Shirley Ann Hunter was born on July 18, 1946, in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, to the late Reverend Earnest Hunter, Sr. and Mrs. Clara D. Hunter. She was the second oldest of her siblings: brothers Willie Hunter, Earnest Hunter Jr., Charles “Butch” Hunter, and sister Sharon Hunter-Wright. Although just ten years apart in age, Shirley adored her younger sister, treating her as if she were her own baby. From an early age, Shirley's love for music blossomed. She attended Third Ward/Grace Love School, where she became the church pianist for her father’s congregation during that time. At Rowan High School, Shirley played the trumpet and French horn with pride, and she graduated with the class of 1964. Shirley cherished her lifelong friendships with her classmates and stayed connected with them throughout her life. Shirley pursued higher education at Dillard University in New Orleans and William Carey University in Hattiesburg. She also supported her mother by teaching and driving for East Side Kindergarten. Shirley was a trailblazer, breaking barriers as the first Black employee at Zon Dell Gardens Market and courageously supporting the Civil Rights Movement by housing and transporting activists. In 1969, Shirley moved to Detroit, Michigan, where she began her long and fulfilling career in healthcare. She joined Henry Ford Hospital, where she worked for 42 years, retiring in 2011. Most notably, she served as an operating room technician in labor and delivery, helping bring tens of thousands of babies into the world. In 1976, Shirley met Samuel Nettles, the love of her life. They married just six months after meeting, beginning a life together built on love, respect, and understanding. Shirley and Sam often said they never had an argument, a reflection of the strong bond they shared. Sam had a way of making every special occasion unforgettable, always going the extra mile. In 1983, their family grew with the birth of their miracle baby, Jonathan Juakeen Nettles, completing their family alongside Shirley’s beloved bonus daughter, Antoinette “Peaches”. Shirley’s faith was central to her life. She spent multiple decades as a dedicated member of Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church, where she served as a nurse and Sunday school teacher. In 2001, when Sam was installed as pastor of Mt. Sion Missionary Baptist Church, Shirley embraced her role as First Lady with grace and humility. She continued teaching Sunday school and was later honored with the title of Church Mother. Shirley radiated joy and warmth, greeting everyone with a big smile and hug. She especially loved celebrating birthdays, whether her own or others, treating each one as a unique moment to bring joy and love. She loved capturing life’s special moments through photos and videos, making those around her feel loved and valued. She was an avid Facebook user, keeping in touch with friends and family, and her thoughtful comments and reactions made others feel deeply connected. Shirley embraced her role as "Nanna" with boundless love and devotion, creating joyful and cherished memories with her grandchildren. She found immense joy in their laughter and milestones, always pouring her heart into making them feel special and deeply loved. Her nurturing spirit extended to her family, particularly her sister Sharon, whom she cared for with tenderness and unwavering support during her illness. Shirley also shared a special bond with her close nephews, Steven and Timothy Hunter, whom she lovingly helped nurture and guide as they grew up. On December 31, 2024, Shirley was called home to the Lord after a two-year battle fought with unwavering faith & strength. She passed peacefully, surrounded by her loving husband, Sam, and son, Jonathan. Shirley is preceded in death by her parents, Reverend Earnest Hunter, Sr. and Mrs. Clara D. Hunter; brothers Willie and Earnest Jr.; and sister Sharon. She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted husband, Pastor Samuel Nettles; cherished son, Jonathan (Dora) Nettles; stepdaughter, Antoinette “Peaches” Weaver; brother, Charles “Butch” Hunter; grandchildren, Torrence Weaver, Camden Weaver, Kamryn Nettles, Carrington Nettles, and Ethan Nettles; special friend and sister in Christ, Kiba Abney; church family at Mt. Sion Missionary Baptist Church; and a host of nieces, nephews, friends, and loved ones. Shirley’s life was a testament to love, service, and joy. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her.

Shirley Ann Nettles

July 18, 1946 - December 31, 2024