Shirley Orr

Shirley Orr, affectionately known to many as "Mama Shirley," passed away peacefully at her home on March 16, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born on May 13, 1948, in Mobile, Alabama, Shirley lived a life marked by warmth, devotion, and unwavering dedication to those she cherished.

Throughout her career, Shirley devoted many years to caring for the elderly, offering compassion and kindness that touched countless lives. Later, she lent her steadfast work ethic to Walmart, where she served faithfully for approximately 15 years, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues and customers alike.

She was well known for her joking spirit, infectious laughter, and loving nature, traits that endeared her to family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Shirley was a vibrant member of Freedom Apostolic Holiness Church in Axis, Alabama, where her voice was raised joyfully in song and testimony. Her enthusiasm for life was also evident in her passions outside the church; she delighted in singing, tending her garden, and visiting the serene Bellengrath Gardens.

Shirley’s greatest pride and joy were her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her family included her devoted children: Ray Charles Rivers (Loretta), Gene Anthony Rivers, Timothy Wayne Rivers, and Steven Cain Rivers. She was a loving grandmother to Rayna Rivers, Josye Baggett, Anissa Neshae Rivers, Betty Ciarra Chianne Rivers, and Timothy Wayne Rivers, Jr., and a cherished great-grandmother to many.

Surviving Shirley are her siblings Pearl Johnson, Penny Burrows, and Neil Sullivan, as well as a wide circle of relatives and friends who will miss her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William Orr; her parents, Thomas and Fannie Sullivan; and siblings Lee Andrew, Hazel, Ann Marie, Arthur, Norma Jean, Ina, Ivan, Geneva, Idell, Annie, Juanita, Joseph, and Thomas.

The family will receive visitors for a time of visitation on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 12:00 PM until the 2:00 PM funeral service at Freedom Apostolic Holiness Church with Sister Loretta Rivers and Bro. Ray Rivers officiating. Burial will follow in Saint Thomas Cemetery. 

Shirley Orr’s life was a testament to love and dedication. Her joyful spirit, nurturing heart, and unwavering faith will continue to inspire all who knew her. She leaves behind a rich legacy of family and a community forever touched by her presence.