Shirley was born April 26, 1950 in Jonesboro Louisiana to parents Mamie Hollingsworth and Stamper Hollingsworth who preceded  her in death. She was seventh in a family of twelve. Shirley leaves behind her husband Anthony Awofeso, two daughters Crystal Brumsey, Olanike Owens, three grandchildren Ayevianna Duncan, Malakhi Resen and Ayomide Resen.