
In Loving Memory

Shirley Vines Robertson Albritton
September 13, 1931 — October 16, 2026
In Loving Memory of Shirley Vines Robertson Albritton
It is with heavy hearts yet profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Shirley Vines Robertson Albritton on October 16, 2026, at the age of 95. Born on September 13, 1931, in Cook County, Illinois, Shirley was a beacon of light to her family and friends, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and creativity.
Shirley was the cherished daughter of Iverson and Velma Gardere Vines. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, her first husband Hayward Severan Robertson, her sisters Gwendolyn Crawford and Clementine Burroughs, and her son Hayward (Monte) II. Her enduring spirit and love continue to live on through her devoted husband, James Albritton, her sons Iverson (Amanda), Michael (Jackie), Stephan (Debbie), and Chris, as well as her daughter-in-law Tianna. Shirley's family extends to her 13 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren, along with a host of nieces and nephews who will forever cherish her memory.
Shirley's early education took place at St. Francis Xavier Catholic School, and she graduated from McKinley High School in 1948, where she proudly held the distinction of being the school’s first uniformed majorette. In 1948, she married Hayward Robertson, and together they built a loving family, welcoming five sons into their lives.
A trailblazer in her professional life, Shirley was the first woman of color to manage the wig department at the May Company in California. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to found Faith Designs, a business renowned for its exquisite wedding gowns and handcrafted creations. Her artistic flair and dedication left an indelible mark on her community in California, Texas, and Louisiana. Shirley’s passion for fashion and design was not just a career but a lifelong pursuit that brought beauty and joy to many.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Shirley was a woman of many interests. She found joy in dancing, attending plays and movies, and solving word search puzzles. Her love for entertainment, both giving and receiving, was infectious, drawing people to her warm and vibrant spirit.
Family was Shirley's greatest love, and she was affectionately known as Mama, Nana, Numi, and Auntie by those closest to her. Her nurturing presence and unwavering support were constants in the lives of her loved ones. Shirley's marriage to James Albritton in 1997 was a testament to enduring love, and the couple remained devoted to each other until her passing.
Acknowledgements:
As we celebrate Shirley's remarkable life, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in her memory. This gesture honors her generous spirit and commitment to helping others.
Though she has left this world, Shirley's legacy of love, creativity, and resilience will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be deeply missed, yet her spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.
Program
Welcome and opening prayer ....Rev. Gregory White
Old testament Psalms 23
New testament John 14:1-6
Music selection ............"Stand" Donnie McClurkin
Reading of obituary ............ Carmen Brannon
Words of comfort ...........Philip Broussard
Iverson Robertson
Acknowledgement....... Velma Banks
Closing Prayer ................ Rev. Greg White
In lieu of flowers, the family of Shirley Vines Robertson Albritton welcomes donations to a charity, nonprofit, church, or organization of your choosing.
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