Shirley was born November 30, 1942, from her parents William and Jessie Buford. And grew up in Kinloch, MO.

Shirley was married once for 50 years to Carl Omituwuju Malik her lifelong partner whom preceded her in passing.

Shirley had 2 biological sons and 1 blended son from her union with Carl: Trevan, Ell Hajj and Sahib Malik.

Shirley was like anyone, she could be a very kind person with strong empathy and yet could be fundamentally flawed. She was a complex person.

Shirley graduated high school and went to college and became a Licensed Practical Nurse and worked in almost every hospital in St. Louis.

Shirley was survived by her 3 sons, Trevan, Ell Hajj and Sahib and her 4 grandchildren Elijah, Elias, Keyonna and Imani Shami Malik. Various nieces, nephews & cousins.

Shirley had 6 siblings whom all preceded her in passing. Shirley was the last survivor of her generation.

Shirley was a Protestant Christian and we pray she is at peace.

Ell Hajj would like to greatly show appreciation, respect and love for my TRUE Brothers and Sisters who was always there when I needed them: James Lester Givens (G-Man RIP), Asa Jerome Newsome, Excel Graham, Edward Wandrick, Terrence Moore, Erica Bennett and so many more.