Shirley Young

We respectfully pay homage to the phenomenal life of Evangelist Shirley Smith Young, celebrating her profound impact with affection, appreciation, and esteem for her extraordinary legacy of faith and selfless commitment. As we mourn and celebrate Shirley’s life, her indomitable spirit will live on in the hearts of those fortunate enough to know her. On Friday, February 7, 2025, we lost a remarkable woman. Shirley was born on November 18, 1937, in Jefferson County, Alabama, to the late William and Ellen Smith. Shirley embraced her spiritual path at a very young age and joined the New Salem Missionary Baptist Church (Bessemer, Jonesboro Heights Alabama) under the leadership of Reverend R.H.Thompson. Following high school, Shirley pursued a brighter future in Manhattan, NY, where she worked as a housekeeper before discovering new opportunities in New Jersey. Shirley's dedication to personal growth was inspiring as she worked tirelessly to enhance her literacy skills through various adult education programs. Her passion for sharing God's word drove her to pursue courses at Eastern Bible Institute, where she earned multiple certificates, awards, as well as an Associate's Degree in Divinity, enabling her to make a meaningful impact in her church’s ministries. In a beautiful twist of fate, Shirley met the love of her life, William Young, while furthering her education at Eastern Bible Institute. As their relationship blossomed, William's family embraced her with open arms, and she became lovingly known as "Aunt Shirley". Evangelist Shirley Young had a distinguished career, serving as a Loss Prevention Supervisor for major department stores; Two Guys and Macy’s among others; subsequently, she became Health Inspector for the City of Newark. She then went on to be Supervisor of Security for Irvington Public Schools in Irvington, NJ. As security guard supervisor, she implemented protocols that created a safe and supportive learning environment, earning her a reputation as a dedicated advocate for students and staff. Students often said, “Mrs. Young DON'T play”, referring to her commitment to excellence. In 2005, she passed the baton on when she retired. Shirley and William always dreamed of retiring in the South. After extensive thought, consideration, and encouragement, they relocated to South Fulton, GA. Her excitement was palpable, and it was obvious that she was so thrilled with their decision to move. William and Shirley happily traveled the world; they loved family trips. Their travels took them from the Caribbean Islands to European countries, Las Vegas, California, and beyond. Their suitcases were always packed to the “ready”; their trips were never dull. Wherever they went excitement followed. On one trip in particular, they drove across country from New Jersey to San Francisco for the day and back; mapping the trip took weeks, but they enjoyed the experience. Shirley's spiritual journey was marked by her early involvement with Hopewell Baptist Church in Newark, NJ, and Christian Pentacostal in Irvington, NJ. After relocating South, she joined New Covenant Ministries located in Lake City, GA, under the pastorship and guidance of Dr. Lee Adams, where the Evangelist's traditional approach to service inspired her to deepen her faith. Listening to the word of God, Shirley found solace and empowerment in attending church services. Shirley leaves to cherish her memory daughter, Robin Bartee, three granddaughters Tyffanni DeBerry, (Washington, DC) Tracey DeBerry (South Fulton, GA) Jasmine Bartee (Albany, NY), two great grandsons, Isaiah Pearce and Jeremiah Bartee, and a host of relatives and friends. Unfortunately, her beloved husband, William Young, son, Ira Smith and dear son-in-law, Sheldon Bartee, sisters, Ruby Gaines, Annie Mae Henderson, brothers, William and Karl Smith, all preceded her in death. Shirley Young ‘s passing marked the end of a life filled with love, compassion, and unwavering dedication to family and friends. Celebration of Life services will be held at the chapel of Southern Cremations & Funerals at Holly Hill, 431 SW Broad St. Fairburn, GA 30213 on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 11:00 AM. She will be laid to rest at Holly Hill Memorial Park. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the funeral home and from 10:00 AM to the hour of service on Thursday. Please express your condolences here on our website.