Shirley Ann Abney
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Ms. Shirley Ann Abney, age 69, passed away Tuesday March 30, 2021 at Lexington Medical Center. Funeral services will be held 11 AM Saturday April 3, 2021 at Second Baptist Church, York Street, Aiken with Rev. Dr. Douglas A. Slaughter, Pastor. Burial will follow in Jessamine Memorial Gardens.
Ms. Shirley Ann Abney was born on November 12, 1951 to the late Sam M. and Annie L. Abney. She was the second of four children born to this union. Her sister Kandie preceded her in death.
Shirley was educated in Aiken County public schools. She was a 1969 graduate of Aiken High School and a 1973 Graduate and senior class vice president at Cheney State University, Chester, PA. The first Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in the country where she was recognized in the 1973 edition of Who' Who in American Universities and Colleges.
Early in Shirley's life she became a faithful member of the Second Baptist Church. One of her greatest memories was during her time as a member of the LL Phillips Gospel Chorus. Shirley would often refer to these times as "my most memorable moments were singing with Eloise and others". Shirley was also a part of the noon day bible study and the prayer warriors.
Following 30 years of employment with the Aiken County Department of Social Services, she became a devoted community servant. In her community participation, she was a life member of the Aiken County NAACP and served as Aiken County NAACP 1st vice president for 9 years, 2nd vice president 4 years and Chairman of the Freedom Fund Banquet, 18 years. Shirley was a true servant and was always willing to volunteer and play a role. She was a dedicated life member of Kappa Upsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., serving as President for two terms, Vice-President for two terms and Chairman of the Health Committee.
When twice stricken with breast cancer, Shirley not only survived this horrible disease, but she became an advocate for breast cancer survivors and did not hesitate to provide motivational and spiritual support to others afflicted by the disease. She was an annual participant of the American Cancer Society, Relay for Life Walk and served on its planning Committee. While stricken with Muscular Sclerosis (MS), Shirley continued to serve through great pain. She was an active member of the Aiken County MS Society and when able participated in the annual MS Walk. During Shirley's battle with this disease, she served in many of those positions mentioned above. She was also a member of a host of other boards and organizations.
Shirley was about raising the bar when serving. To not just serve but to make the most contributions that impacted positive change. In spite of her health challenges, when Shirley would be asked "how are you doing today she would often respond by saying "My day went fantabulously and I thank God for it".
Shirley leaves to celebrate and cherish her memories her brothers Samuel O. Abney (Rosita) of Pikesville, Maryland and COL (R) J.C. Abney (Ava) San Antonio, Texas; her niece Camryn M. Abney, Furman University; and a host of cousins, other relatives and friends.
Friends may call her brother, JC Abney, 770-330-5302 or JACKSON-BROOKS FUNERAL HOME, 126 Fairfield St SE, Aiken, SC 29801, 803-649-6123. Contributions in Shirley's Honor can be made to the Local Chapter of MS Society or The American Breast Cancer Association.