Shirley J. Andrews

On March 23, 2024, Shirley Russell Andrews went home to be with the Lord. She was 91 and had stoutly battled a lung condition for many years. Shirley was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Edward Andrews; her parents, Marshall and Martha Russell; brothers Everett, Boyd, and WT; sisters Lillian and Virginia; nephew Alan Montague; and grandson Christopher Andrews. She is survived by her children, Linda Andrews of Kernersville, Eddie Andrews of Hillsborough, and Rusty Andrews of Durham, her sister Marjorie (Alfred O’Briant), 4 grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

Shirley was a lifelong resident of Durham. She was born in 1933 and was the youngest of 7 siblings. She grew up on a farm on Carr’s Farm Rd and attended school at Lowes Grove. In the early 1950’s, she met her future husband, Edward Andrews, on a blind date. She held jobs as a department store clerk at a downtown Durham store in the 50’s and later in medical records at Duke Hospital.

Shirley was faithful and found great comfort in the Christian faith and her church community. She read the bible daily. Throughout the years, she attended Carr United Methodist, Angier Ave Church, and Lowes Grove Baptist Church. She enjoyed traveling with her husband, browsing yard sales, and collecting glassware. Shirley was always well dressed, and her talents with African violets would put any state fair to shame. She was also an accomplished cook and baker. Above all, she loved her faith and her family.

Shirley will be missed for many things. She was a devoted Christian, mother, wife, and member of her community. She was known for her gentle disposition, humility, and kindness. Her kindly southern accent, gentle tone, and the standing offer of delicious homemade desserts instantly brought comfort and made all feel welcome in her home. Her humor was dry and understated, and her mental acuity never waned in her long life. Her stories and recollections always managed to entertain. Truly this loss of a matriarch will be felt by her family and friends and all of Durham. 

The family would like to thank all the doctors, nurses, therapists, and other healthcare workers who cared for Shirley in her final few months. In particular, the family is forever grateful for the steadfast care of Drs Carlton Miller and James Snapper and nurse Christine Wells.