Shirley Perry

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Ms. Shirley Black was born on May 13, 1935, in Staten Island, New York to George W. Black and Mary Black (nee Burries). She was the sixth of nine children born of that union and was the last remaining child until her death. Her siblings were Thomas, Elizabeth, George Jr., Naomi, Ruth, Peggy Jean, Edward and Barbara. Shirley was educated in the public school system of Staten Island, graduating from Ralph R. McKee Career and Technical Education High School. She went on to receive her Bachelor's Degree in English, from the former Staten Island Community College (SICC).

Shirley married Rudolph Perry Sr. in April of 1953 and had a 49 year union, until his death in 2002. From that union there were 9 children - Rudolph Jr., Donna, Robert, Mary Ann (2 days old), Kevin Sr., Shirleen, (all of whom preceded her in death) as well as George Sr., Esther, and Elsa. There are also numerous grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins who are left to mourn her absence, generosity, kindness, grace and love.

Mrs. Perry held a number of jobs throughout her lifetime such as a laundress, domestic, post office worker and Attendance Coordinator at Curtis High School, all while running a household, raising 8 children and being the EVERY WOMAN to numerous grand, great and great great grandchildren.

She was a very loving, caring, kind but stern person who did not mind “slapping you upside the head” to get her point across in case you didn’t get it with her words. Wrestling – WWF as it was called way back when, was her favorite tv pastime. There were even a few times she put a hold or two on one of her children and grandchildren – once again, to get her point across.

Shirley touched everyone she met and left a positive impression on all. She was a true “Child of God”. She and Pastor Amelia Swinton not only fed the souls of the people in the community but fed their bodies, having a food pantry and cooking meals from a small church in Port Richmond. Shirley enjoyed cooking for her family, especially her collard greens. One batch that included a Brillo pad to which she replied “Well, your insides were cleaned, and you got some extra iron with your meal”.

Shirley peacefully went home to be with her Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ on the evening of December 24, 2022. She will be sorely and gravely missed by her family and friends, but her words, wisdom, love and kindness will be cherished and remembered.

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