Shirley Roberta Lee, 86 was born on December 11, 1938 in Long Branch, NJ to the late William P. and Teola (Jones) Lee. She departed this life on Tuesday, October 7, 2025 at home.
Shirley grew up in Matawan, NJ where she attended Matawan High School. She graduated in 1956 and started working at Fort Monmouth in 1957. After 37 years of employment with the federal government Shirley retired in 1994 as an Item Manager.
Shirley was a no-nonsense type of person. She would give you the “Shirley look” and you knew she meant business. Her favorite saying was “I don’t care what anyone else says I am glad to be me!” All of her family members say the same thing, “we could all count on Shirley for whatever we needed.” Shirley could always be seen in the mall shopping but she will tell you “she does not pay full price for anything.”
Shirley was a member of St. James A.M.E. Zion Church of Matawan for over 80 years. Serving as a Stewart and Trustee. Her list of responsibilities included Lead of Finances for the Women and a Class Leader. Shirley was responsible for the Ornella Tree of Recognition displayed at St. James A.M.E. Zion Church.
Shirley was predeceased by her parents William and Teola Lee; brothers William “Pete” Lee, John Edward Lee, Ronald “Derek” Lee; and sister Winifred (Lee) Hall.
She leaves to cherish her memories her devoted daughter Diane Lee Brock and beloved son-in-law Anthony J. Brock, Sr.; brothers Ernest “Dougie” (Amelda) Lee, Raymond Lee and Aaron Lee; sisters-in-law Shirley Russell Lee and Joanne Lee; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
