Born Shirley Bertha Porter on August 18, 1940, in Natchitoches, Louisiana, she was the youngest of nine children born to Selina LaCaze and Johnny Porter, Sr. Shirley accepted Christ at an early age at Shiloh Baptist Church and graduated from Central High School in 1959.

In her late teens, she met the love of her life, Ferdinand C. Robinson. The two married and relocated to Houston, Texas, in 1960, where they built a beautiful 52-year marriage and raised three children: Darryl, Brenda, and Frederica. Dedicated to supporting her family, Shirley trained at the B&W Meat Company School for Butchers and worked passionately as a professional butcher until a work-related illness shifted her path. She later found fulfillment as a school cafeteria worker, ultimately retiring from Burbank Middle School. Following her retirement, Shirley lovingly served as  Ferdinand’s primary caregiver until his passing on September 25, 2010.

In the years that followed, she leaned heavily on her faith, dedicating herself to her family and grandchildren. Shirley was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ferdinand; her son, Darryl C. Robinson; and her daughter, Brenda F. Robinson. Her precious memories will forever be cherished by her devoted daughter, Frederica Robinson-Rosemond, and loving son-in-law, Percy Rosemond, Jr.; her brother, Ray Ambrose Porter (Jeanette); and a host of beloved grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives, and dear friends.