Shirley Ward Lyons

Obituary for Shirley E. Lyons

With profound sadness and hearts filled with gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of our beloved Shirley Elaine Ward Lyons, who peacefully entered eternal rest on July 28, 2026, at the age of 90. Shirley was born on September 27, 1935, in Baltimore, Maryland. She was the second of five children born to the late Herman L. Ward Sr. and Louise Blow Ward.

At an early age, she accepted Christ into her life and became a member of Christian Home Baptist Church in Windsor, Virginia, where she worshiped with her parents and siblings. Shirley received her formal education at Isle of Wight County Training School, where she graduated on May 31, 1954. Following graduation, she attended what was then Norfolk State College, now Norfolk State University, and completed one year of study.

Later in life, Shirley returned to Baltimore, Maryland, rededicated her life to Christ, and joined in fellowship with Israel Baptist Church of Baltimore City. She was a faithful member as well as a proud member of the choir until her health began to fail. She loved her fellow choir members and held a special place in her heart for Rev. H. Walden Wilson II. Her unwavering faith and cherished church community remained important parts of her life.

Although the sound of Shirley singing hymns as she went about her day will be deeply missed, the memory of her singing two of her favorite hymns, “This Little Light of Mine” and “What a Friend We Have in Jesus,” with her daughter will live on and echo in our hearts forever.

In 1969, Shirley began working in the Medical Records Department at Johns Hopkins Hospital. She was a dedicated and cherished employee, providing 44 years of service before retiring and returning to Virginia in 2013.

Known for being a sharp dresser, Shirley loved clothes and shopping throughout her life, always taking pride in looking her best. She meticulously matched her shoes and purses to her outfits, always putting together the perfect look. Shopping was one of her favorite activities, whether she was searching for something for herself or simply enjoying shopping trips with church members.

She looked forward to attending the annual crab feasts, whether with her church family or her birth family, and enjoyed the fellowship, laughter, and good food that accompanied them. In her quieter moments, she enjoyed watching the Game Show Network, especially Steve Harvey on Family Feud.

Shirley enjoyed life and loved spending time with her family and friends. She treasured the time she spent with her grandchildren and was always happy to hear from or visit with loved ones. She laughed often, enjoyed good conversation, and knew how to bring joy and humor into the lives of those around her.

Above all else, Shirley loved fried chicken and enjoyed it every chance she got. She was known to call family members at any time of the day or night asking for chicken. Her love of fried chicken became one of the many unforgettable things about her, always making her family smile. It will remain a treasured and humorous memory for those who knew her best.

Shirley was united in marriage to James L. Lyons in the mid-1950s, and from this union, one daughter, Freida R. Lyons-Johnson, was born. They shared many years of marriage.

In addition to her parents, Shirley was preceded in death by her siblings Waverly J. Ward, Clementine Jackson, and Herman Ward Jr.

Forever cherishing her memory and continuing her legacy are her loving daughter, Freida R. Lyons-Johnson (Kevin C. Johnson); her brother, Vernon L. Ward Sr.; her sister-in-law, Debra Ward; her beloved grandchildren, Charniece L. Johnson-Moreno (Maurice), Kevin C. Johnson II, and Trevin J. Johnson; her goddaughter, Dr. Keshia A. Brown; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins; and a host of other loving relatives, church family members, and friends.

Shirley will be remembered for her faith, her laughter, her sense of style, her love of shopping, her devotion to family, and her ability to find joy in life’s simple pleasures. Her presence will be deeply missed, but the memories she created and the love she shared will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Viewing will take place Thursday, August 13, 2026 from 3-6pm at Shivers Funeral Chapel,12749 Courthouse Highway, Smithfield, VA 23430. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11am Friday August 14, 2026 at Christian Home Baptist Church, 20123 Longview Drive, Windsor, VA 23847. Interment will follow the service in Christian Home Baptist Church Cemetery.

Please keep the Ward and Lyons family in your prayers.