Shirley Irene Bolden's Obituary
Shirley Irene Bolden, 74, of Memphis, TN, passed away on February 13, 2026. She was born on November 25, 1951, in Detroit, MI to Willie Donald and Ester Pugh of Burnett, MS.
A woman of deep and abiding faith, Shirley was a devoted Christian whose life reflected kindness, grace, and quiet strength. She loved with grace and cared for everyone around her. Shirley’s greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was her family.
A selfless mother, grandmother, aunt, and sister; she always placed her family’s needs above her own. Her legacy will live on through them. She guided with patience, wisdom, and unconditional love.
She is preceded in death by her mother, Ester Pugh; father, Willie Donald; brother, Clineton Allen; and sisters, Louise Donald and Fathi Carter.
Left to cherish her memory is her son, Murray Donald, daughter in law, Zactoria Donald; grandchildren, Murray Donald Jr., Toni Donald, and Phillip Blackburn; stepdaughter, Melinda Wilson; stepson, Terry Wilson; siblings, Maurice Donald and Victoria Jefferson (Willie); niece, Lashawn Carter; nephews, Raymond Donald and Lance Carter; grand nieces and nephews; and a host of loving family members and friends.
“My dear sister. You were not just my sister, but my friend, my protector, and a piece of my heart. I will miss your voice, your laughter, and the way you understood me. You will forever live in my heart and the memories we created. I love you more than words can express. My three sisters together until we see each other again, rest peacefully sis.” - Your lil bro Maurice.
“In loving memory of Grandma, a soul so dear, Your warmth and kindness, forever held near. Your gentle smile, a beacon of light, Guiding us through darkness, making everything light.” “Though you’re no longer with us, your spirit remains, In every memory, love still sustains. Rest Peacefully, Grandma, your legacy lives on, IN our hearts forever, never truly gone.” “We miss you dearly, more than words can say, But find solace knowing you’re in a better place, they say. Your love surrounds us, a comforting embrace, Until we meet again, in that Heavenly space.” - Your grandchildren
“Auntie, I am going to miss our long conversations and the sound of your constant laughter. You had such a beautiful sense of humor about life, and you brought light and joy into every moment we shared. I love you for eternity. Until we meet again, may you rest peacefully.” -Love you always – Shawn
“Be positive, Be strong, Be joyful. God has Everything under control.”
“The Lord is my light and my salvation-whom should I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life-of whom should I be afraid?”
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