Shirley Howard Staples Boyd, beloved mother, grandmother, and pillar of her family, passed away peacefully on May 29, 2023 at the age of 87. She was born in Laurel, Mississippi in 1935 to her loving parents, Ethel (Singleton) Staples and William Howard Staples. Shirley was preceded in death by her sisters, Beth Duckworth, Dot Lehr, and Bobbie Carson.
Shirley's formative years were spent in Laurel and Ellisville, Mississippi, Mobile, Alabama, and Memphis, Tennessee. She shared a special bond with her sister Bobbie, and they often spent Saturday afternoons watching western movies at the matinee. Shirley's pursuit of education led her to the University of Tennessee in Knoxville where she studied business.
After her return to Ellisville, she worked in an administrative capacity. She accompanied her mother one night to the local VFW for bingo, and there, she met her future husband, Victor C. Boyd, Jr. of Campti, Louisiana. They married in Laurel, Mississippi in 1962. The couple's adventures took them across the globe, starting with a move to Melbourne, Australia, where their first child, Robert, was born. They later moved to Perth, Australia, where their daughter Megan, entered the world. Afterward, they settled in Shreveport, Louisiana, where their son Victor (III), was born. Finally, the family established their home in Houston, Texas, where their youngest daughter, Sarah Boyd, completed their loving family.
Shirley was an active and devoted parent volunteer at her children's Memorial-area schools, and kept the homefires burning while her husband traveled for work. She provided unwavering support to her family, encouraging and enabling her children to pursue their interests, be it art, horses, or sports, and always stressed the importance of higher education.
In addition to her dedication to her family, Shirley was a dedicated volunteer with the Center for Pursuit, which promotes the pursuit of choice, growth and independence for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism or similar conditions, for over 30 years. She also dedicated her time to the Cullen Caners teaching the art and rare skill of caning and chair repair to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as a means to their dignified employment. Shirley's generosity knew no bounds as she shared her skills and knowledge to empower others.
Shirley had a deep love for travel and was fortunate to have explored all seven continents during her lifetime. She delighted in journeying alongside her sisters, visiting historical sites and museums throughout the United States. Ireland held a special place in her heart, and she cherished the warm encounters with its friendly people.
Beyond her adventurous spirit, Shirley had a keen eye for photography and was an avid gardener and bridge player. Achieving the distinguished title of Life Master, she was a competitive bridge player, often talking through with her husband how a hand was played the day before. Her green thumb shone through her thriving flower and vegetable gardens. More recently, she embraced potted plants, adorning her patios at the Villages of Tanglewood.
Shirley was an esteemed member of the Western Geophysical Women's Auxiliary. She cherished the camaraderie and friendships formed within the organization.
Shirley Howard Staples Boyd leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication to family and community. She will be lovingly remembered by her children, in-laws, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
The family will hold a private celebration of Shirley and her remarkable life. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made in Shirley's memory to the Center for Pursuit of Houston.
A special thanks to the loving and compassionate caregivers in her final stages of life: Betty __, Diana __, Kersheera __, Joy __, Latoya Stewart and Lavernon __.
Mom, you will forever be cherished in our hearts, and your spirit will continue to inspire us all. May you rest in eternal peace.
[obituary by Sarah Boyd]
The top from the left is mom and me in 1963, then the next two are from 1971 and sometime in the 70s. The last one is from the 60s, but I’m not sure of the location.
Robert, that was a lovely obituary and testimonial for you mother. It seems she lived a life caring for others, a trait that reveals compassion for her fellow man far beyond the boundaries of her family. I hope you and your family find peace soon, may her memory remain for a blessing.