Shirley Lorene Wilson (Lewis), often known as the woman with the "Box Cut," was born in Texarkana, Texas, on November 15, 1947. From birth, her parents, Reverend Roscoe Lewis and Vernon Helen Lewis, believed she would excel all expectations on her journey of life while serving others.

After graduating from Dunbar High School in 1965, individuals referred to her as a "church girl" since she consistently attended church and prioritized music-related activities above academics. She was always ready to sing at any moment with family, friends, or at church. This contributed to the success of her singing career, as did her mother's musical talents which laid the foundation of her singing journey.

Shirley met the love of her life, Willie Earl Wilson in high school and they married on July 19, 1968. Together, they had three children Derrick, Nichelle, and Mayisha. Known for her compassion, love, and kindness, she was a mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, and a devoted wife.

Shirley's passion for music led her to sing with quartet groups such as, The Spiritual Inspirations, The Glover Singers, and so many more. Her diverse gifts and graces surpassed her remarkable musical and songwriting skills throughout the years. Shirley eagerly participated and offered help when needed, demonstrated her dedication to assisting churches, organizations, choirs, and groups. She was a member of Greater Shiloh Church of God in Christ for more than 20 years and later became a member of Mt. Grove Baptist Church were her gifts were utilized in both ministries. "Bootsy," as many fondly referred to her, displayed remarkable compassion and empathy, exemplified by her numerous acts of kindness. Her character was demonstrated by her unfailing support for others.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband Willie E. Wilson, with whom she shared over 29 years of marriage, her parents Reverend Roscoe and Vernon Helen Lewis, and cousin Vernon Ruth Smith (Buddy).

Those left to celebrate her legacy are her children Derrick L. Wilson of Charleston, SC, Nichelle S. Cunningham (Shaun Sr.) of Ladson, SC, and Mayisha N. Johnson (Vernon) of D'iberville, MS, her grandchildren D'ante Wilson, Shaun Cunningham Jr., Amari Sanders, Nicholas Cunningham, Shanell Cunningham and Arin Johnson. Her brother Harold Lewis (Clementine) of Killeen, TX and her sister Rose M. Williams of Charleston, SC. Her nephews Ronnie Lewis (Kim), Vincent Williams, Rashad Smith (Tasha), nieces Regina Williams (Cedric), Sharon Rodriguez (Carlos), Ramell Grant (Damon), and a host of great nieces and nephews. Shirley's goddaughter Raylonda Baker and all the men and women who called her Mama Shirley, Sis, Name, extended family members, cousins, and friends.