Mary “Shirley” Hollis Owens, age 76, of Atlanta, passed away October 20, 2021.

Shirley was born in Hampton on January 14, 1945 to the late Walter and Sarah Hollis where she grew up alongside eight brothers and three sisters.

Shirley was a beloved wife, mother and Grandma. She was a strong woman and the matriarch of her family. She was a loving and caring lady but she could also be feisty. A true fireball, Shirley enjoyed the best things in life – her family, great friends, cruises in the Caribbean and slot machines at the casinos. She was known to have traditionally brewed coffee every morning and she drank “a swallow of Coke,” her favorite drink, throughout the day.  Shirley was an excellent cook. Her specialty was Southern food, particularly collard greens, cabbage and turnip greens.  Shirley enjoyed tv game shows, soap operas and romance magazines. Shirley will be remembered for the love and kindness she gave to her family and friends.

Along with her parents, Shirley was preceded in death by her sisters and brothers: Daisy Johnson, Mildred Sims, Carolyn Thompson, Walter Lee Hollis, Anthony Hollis, Harold Hollis and Van Hollis. She is survived by her children: Cathy Hollis of Conyers, Jacqueline (Allan) Romeo of Mableton, Robin Parker of Alpharetta and Johnny (Deidra) Matthews of Atlanta; grandchildren: Blake, Brandon, Christian, Alexandra, Aliyah, Phillip-Michael, Chase and Canon; great-grandchildren: T’Kai, Anahja and Zawadi; brothers: Wade (Sarah) Hollis, Larry Hollis, Gary Hollis and MacArthur Hollis, all of Atlanta; a host of nieces and nephews. The Owens family would like to extend their gratitude to Mr. Willie Owens for his continued love and support during this difficult time.

A memorial service will be held in Shirley’s honor Thursday, October 28, 2021 in Fairburn, GA.  The Owens family is being assisted by  Georgia Cremation, 1086 Hwy 54 West, Fayetteville.  Messages of condolences may be left at www.GeorgiaCremation.com.