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TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES UPON THE PASSING OF SHIRLEY M. BLACK OF COLUMBIA AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HER FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.
Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of one of our own, Shirley M. Black of Columbia, on March 5, 2020, at the age of seventy-seven, after a short, but courageous battle with cancer; and
Whereas, Shirley worked for the House of Representatives for more than forty years. She was the long-time Accounting Manager for the Accounting and Benefits Department. She greeted members with her characteristic smile as she often hand-delivered their paychecks on the floor of the House. She loved each and every one of "her Reps," and they in turn adored "Miss Shirley"; and
Whereas, she was highly respected by both the members and staff for her fairness, focus on problem-solving instead of blame-placing, and kindness to all. She truly was a citizen of character who never met a stranger and was happy to help with any request; and
Whereas, Shirley was an active member of First Baptist Church of Lexington. Even though she experienced her share of hardships, losing her first husband, Jerry Edwards, and a beloved daughter and grandson, she kept strong to her faith; and
Whereas, she was blessed to find a new love in Olin Black, to whom she was married for thirty-eight years. Anyone who brought their car into Black's in Irmo learned of the love and devotion that Olin had for his Shirley. He knew how lucky he was to hold her heart and she held his in return. They are together now and we can all take great comfort in that knowledge; and
Whereas, Shirley leaves behind a legacy of love and service to her family, her church, and her large community. Her dedication to her job, family, and friends was inspirational. Preceded in death by her husband, Olin Black and daughter, Kathy Hatfield, Shirley leaves to cherish her memory her children, Greg Edwards, Lisa Rivers (Matthew), Cheryl Freeman (Rex), Tony Black, and Michelle Wadford (Eddie); twelve grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and a host of other family and friends. A loving mother, grandmother, and friend, she will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:
That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, express their profound sorrow upon the passing of Shirley M. Black of Columbia and extend their deepest sympathy to her family and many friends.
Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Shirley M. Black.
This web page was last updated on March 11, 2020 at 11:36 AM