Shirley Ann Grant was born in Denver, Colorado on July 2, 1958 to W.A. and Ernestine J.B. Kendrick Grant. Following the death of her mother, according to a previous agreement between her mother, father and grandmother, Shirley was moved to Muskogee, Oklahoma at the age of four. She was raised by her grandmother, Mrs. P.A. Kendrick and her uncle Mr. Thomas Kendrick, whom she proudly referred to as “PAPA.”
Shirley was raised in the church and was a devout Christian beginning her music ministry at an early age at Rayfield Baptist Church, where she was a member and pianist. The pastor at the time was Rev. J.L. Strawther. Her love for music led to the beginning of formal piano lessons at the age of seven. Her music teachers were Eleanor Barnwell, Mrs. Mathis, Bertha Warren, Kenneth Growcock, Mrs. C.G. Edmond (Gospel Music), Robert Feree (Organ), both concurrent with Mr. Growcock, and Ineta Bebb (vocal for two years) plus college professors. Upon graduation from Muskogee High School, Shirley attended and graduated from Tulsa Junior College in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Shirley was founder-director-organist-pianist and minister of music for several churches and singing groups, praise teams, and liturgical dancers. She also presented musical workshops for several area churches. She was founder-operator for Shirley’s catering services. She was also the founder-operator for Shirley’s Music Studio, which began in 1981, until her death. She taught all ages and charged a minimal fee so those less fortunate were able to learn music if they had the desire.
Shirley married Mr. Ricky D. Jackson in June of 1997. To this union their lovely daughter, Carnelia (C.C.) was born.
Sister Shirley’s labor for God ended peacefully in the arms of Jesus early Saturday morning on May 31, 2008. Her parents, grandparents, and two uncles, Arthur Kendrick, Jr. and Archi Grant, preceded her in death.
The family she leaves behind, to thank the Lord for the time she had with them, include her husband Ricky D. Jackson and her daughter, Carnelia Jackson, both of the home. One very special uncle Thomas Kendrick, of Carson City, NV and a host of other relatives and friends.
Funeral services for Shirley will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2008 11:00 A.M. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, with Father Bryan Brooks officiating. She will lay in eternal rest in Booker T. Washington Cemetery. Visitation hours will be today from 1:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. A rosary service will be held 7:00 P.M. immediately following visitation. Services are under the direction of Ragsdale Funeral Center.
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