Shirley Mae Lewis

With heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived, we announce the peaceful passing of Shirley Mae Lewis, who departed this world on June 1, 2026, at the age of 89. Born on March 16, 1937, in Baltimore, Maryland, Shirley was a woman of unwavering strength, compassionate spirit, and unyielding dedication to her family and community. Shirley was welcomed into this world by her parents, Neva Rogers Peele and Connie Walters. Though life's journey led her through moments of profound loss, including the passing of her cherished parents and stepparents, John Butts and James E. Peele, Shirley found solace and strength in the love of her family. She is now reunited with them in eternal rest. Shirley's journey began as a nursing assistant at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland, a testament to her nurturing spirit and desire to care for others. Her determination and dedication saw her advance to become a Licensed Practical Nurse at Greater Baltimore Medical Center in Towson, Maryland. Shirley's commitment to her profession extended beyond her duties, as she became an organizer for the 1199-E National Hospital and Hospital Employees Union, advocating tirelessly for her peers. Her union work was complemented by her active participation in the Universal Masonic Brotherhood and Eastern Star, as well as the Household of Ruth, where she fostered lifelong friendships and contributed to the betterment of her community. Shirley's personal life was blessed with love and partnership. She was united in marriage with William Rogers in 1956 and later found love again with Ronzie Lewis in 1977. Together, Shirley and Ronzie shared a passion for fishing, often exploring the eastern coastline in search of the perfect catch. A woman of frank opinions and a heart of gold, Shirley was known for her directness and her unwavering kindness. Her generosity knew no bounds, as she consistently extended a helping hand to those in need, offering food and support with a warm smile and an open heart. Shirley's legacy lives on through her beloved sons, John Edward Butts and his wife Barbara, and Dennis Rogers. Her memory will be cherished by her grandchildren, Lavar Omar Harvey, David Rogers, and Danielle Rogers, and her great-grandchildren, Janae Harvey and Destiny Rogers, who were the light of her life. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the hospice care team, including Nurse Dolly White, Nurse's Aid Leticia Coly, and Chaplain Zachary Parks, for their compassionate care during Shirley's final days. Special thanks are also due to her devoted cousin, Betty Branch, and her dear friend, June Johnson, for their unwavering support and spiritual upliftment. A celebration of Shirley's life will be held on June 13, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Riely Hill Baptist Church. Family, friends, and all whose lives were touched by Shirley are invited to join in honoring a remarkable woman whose legacy of love, service, and kindness will endure in our hearts forever. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to local food banks, in keeping with Shirley's lifelong mission to help others. Rest in peace, Shirley Mae Lewis. Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.