Shirley Johnson Lassiter

Shirley was born in 1935 in Williamsburg, VA, to the late Ethel (Johnson) Buckner and Johnny Johnson. She graduated from Matthew Whaley High School in 1954 and attended Richmond Polytechnic Institute (now Virginia Commonwealth University) from 1956 – 1957 where she studied business administration.

Shirley was employed by a number of companies during her career. The last and longest position she held was with Allergy Associates, where she worked for Ken King, M.D., for 30 years.

Shirley was a charter member of Denbigh Presbyterian Church, now Denbigh United Presbyterian Church. Until her health failed, she was an active member there, serving as the church historian, a member of the Women of the Church, and on many church committees. Shirley was also a 60+-year member of Beta Sigma Phi National Sorority. She formed many long and lasting friendships in both groups. Shirley was a devoted fan of The College of William and Mary’s sports programs. For many years she and her husband Earl held season passes for the College’s basketball and football home games, and they enjoyed many road trips to attend the basketball team’s postseason tournaments.

In addition to her parents, Shirley was predeceased by her sister Diane Morgan; her stepfather Dan Buckner; brother-in-law Archie Ray Lassiter; and several cousins.

Shirley is survived by the love of her life Earl Lassiter, her devoted husband of 65 years; sons Stephen Allison (Starlene) and Glen Scott; grandchildren Sidney Allison and Jesse Earl; and brothers-in-law Turner Wayne Lassiter(Mary Jane) and Robert Morgan.

The family would like to thank the caregivers, friends, and fellow church members who have assisted in caring for Shirley throughout her long illness.

A Memorial Service will be conducted at 2:00 p.m., on Friday, August 12 at Denbigh United Presbyterian Church. The family will receive guests at the church from 1:00-1:50 p.m. on August 12. Interment will follow immediately at Parklawn Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Endowment Fund of Denbigh United Presbyterian Church, 302 Denbigh Boulevard, Newport News, VA 23608.

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