TROY, OH - Shirley Ann Hale, age 73, of Troy, died on September 11, 2025, with family by her side. She was born on April 14, 1952, in Detroit, Michigan, to Luther Nixon and Ellen Hayden. She is known for her witty humor, her loving spirit, and her thoughtful way of caring for others.

She attended Detroit Public Schools and proudly graduated from Western High School in 1969, where she was recognized as an exceptional athlete, a 4.0 honor student, and a gifted clarinet player. Her love for learning continued at Wayne State University and Washtenaw Community College, where she earned her degree in Telecommunications.

Shirley began her professional career with Michigan Bell Telephone Company in 1970, starting as a phone operator. Her intelligence, diligence, and determination quickly set her apart, and she was soon recruited into the engineering program. She excelled in her role, breaking barriers for women and paving the way for others and retired after 38 years of dedicated service.

Most importantly, Shirley confessed her faith in Christ at an early age, was baptized, and remained steadfast in her walk with the Lord throughout her life. Her faith anchored her, her kindness uplifted others, and her strength inspired everyone she encountered.

In the 1980s, Shirley became a member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Detroit, Michigan, where she served faithfully in many roles, including youth leader, trustee, and other auxiliaries. In 2008, she relocated to Portland, Oregon, with her son, Kevin and daughter-in-law, Wendy, joining Zion Lutheran Church. There she served in the Meals on Wheels program and was recognized for her heart to serve meals at the shelter weekly. In 2014, Shirley moved to Ohio to live with her daughter, Anisha, and became a member of Dominion Ministries International in Clayton, Ohio. She enjoyed fellowship with the Women of Faith group and supported the children’s ministry by providing books and Bibles through her volunteer work at the Dollar Swap Bookstore.

On April 17, 1970, Shirley married Jobie Hale, and from this union came two beloved children: Kevin James Hale and Anisha Ellen Hale. She poured herself into motherhood, ensuring her children had what they needed, and instilled in them the values of love, faith, and perseverance. Shirley was also gifted with her hands — she sewed clothing, completed home repairs, and even enjoyed riding motorcycles.

Shirley was preceded in death by her father, Luther Nixon. She leaves to cherish her memory her loving mother, Ellen Hayden; two devoted children, Kevin James Hale (Wendy) and Anisha Ellen Hale; three precious grandchildren, Quincy Blake Hale, Sevrin Reid Hale, and Willow Adele Hale; one brother, Kennedy Wright; two sisters, Jaquenta Williams and Margaret Alford (Carl), and a host of family members, church family, and friends who will forever treasure her life and legacy.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 12:00-2:00PM at Dominion Ministries International, 6542 N. Union Rd, Clayton, Ohio 45315. A funeral service honoring Shirley’s life will follow at 2:00PM at the church, with Pastor Bruce Moxley Jr, officiating. Flowers may be delivered to the church on Saturday between 10:00AM-12:00PM. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the church, in memory of Shirley. For additional information and to view Shirley’s online obituary, please visit www.churchfuneralsdirect.com.


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