Words of Reflection

Mrs. Shirley Ann Young was born on September 23, 1946 in Forth Smith, Arkansas. First born to Johnnie Mae Howard and Levi Jenkins and the oldest of five. Shirley was raised in the home of her grandmother, Inez A. Nelson, in Kansas City, MO.

Shirley was known for her kindness, grace, and constant dedication to those around her. She had a passion for helping others and always put the needs of others before her own. Shirley will be remembered for her warm smile, gentle spirit, and unwavering love for her community. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her legacy of compassion and generosity will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She was a mother to 7 children (3, boys and 4 girls) and two stepsons. She was a friend to many and loved by all who were able to share the time with her. She was know for her famous peach cobbler. She was previously married twice, before meeting the love of lie William Young Jr. whom she spent 33 wonderful years with.

Unfortunately, in 2022 she was diagnosed with bladder cancer. She fought a hard battle undergoing chemotherapy, radiation and physical therapy. Throughout her illness she was able to laughing and smiling through the pain. On Monday, November 18, 2024 at 5:10am she lost her battle with cancer and left to mourn her loving and cherished husband, William Young Jr; sister Corodolia Gray; brothers, Kevin Howard and Ectric Howard; children Alicia Atkins, Lachelle Wilson, Mark and Steve Young, Jabber Tanner, Tauheedah Rideau, and Malika Steele. She always left behind 11 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and a host of friends and family.