Shirley O'Berry Obituary

Shirley Miller O'Berry was born on February 19, 1948, in Columbia, South Carolina, to Willette and Fred Miller. She was born at the historic Columbia Hospital, a facility renowned for serving the African American community during a pivotal time in South Carolina's history. On June 1, 2025, Shirley transitioned at her home. A naturally curious and avid learner, Shirley had a lifelong passion for books, biographies, documentaries, and a wide range of media. Despite enduring chronic medical conditions throughout her childhood-which required numerous treatments and hospital stays-Shirley remained resilient and determined. She graduated proudly from C.A. Johnson High School, Class of 1967. Shortly after graduation, Shirley entered the workforce, where she would meet her lifelong friend, Mrs. Annette Watkins. In 1973, she married her high school classmate, Harold L. Green. Together, they traveled across the continental United States before settling in Atlanta, Georgia, where they welcomed their first son, Brian. A few years later, their second son, Julian, was born. Following the birth of their second child, Shirley and Harold parted ways, and she returned to Columbia to raise her sons and explore new professional opportunities. Shirley pursued vocational training at the Professional Training Institute (PTI) and furthered her education at Midlands Technical College, ultimately entering the field of psychiatric nursing. She found deep fulfillment in her work with the South Carolina Department of Mental Retardation (now the Department of Mental Health), where she was known for her exceptional compassion, clinical skill, and advocacy for patients without strong family support systems. Her dedication earned her special recognition for excellence in nursing and a feature in The State newspaper. Never one to remain idle, Shirley later transitioned to roles in home health, private duty, and nursing pool services. Throughout these years, she courageously managed ongoing health challenges, including severe back pain, with grace and perseverance. In 1988, Shirley married Herman L. O'Berry, Jr., with whom she shared 36 loving years. Following her early retirement, Shirley embraced her role as a homemaker and community host. She was widely admired for her warmth, generosity, sassiness, and the memorable meals and gatherings she hosted, which brought comfort and connection to so many. Shirley was predeceased by her parents, Willette and Fred Miller Sr.; siblings, Larry Miller, Charles Miller, Fred Miller Jr., Willie "Pete" Nelson Blocker, Cathy "PW" Elaine Brady, and Tammy Marie Miller. Shirley leaves to cherish her memory: her beloved husband, Herman Lee O'Berry, Jr.; her beloved sons, Brian Linford Green (Anita) and Julian Scott Green; her bonus children, Kenneth David O'Berry, Kevin Donald O'Berry (deceased), Kellie Denise O'Berry, and Dennis O'Berry Odom (Joy); her grandchildren, Terrance Brian Green and Sky Gianni Green; and bonus grandchildren, Brittany O'Berry Hammonds (Preston), Jontel Chanice O'Berry Gunter (Lewis), Telor Chanel Webb, Ashley Rene O'Berry, Diana Zhane' O'Berry, Samantha Kennedy O'Berry, Denisha JaQuanda Odom, Dennis O'Berry Odom, Jr. and a host of bonus great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, cousins and relatives. She also leaves her last remaining siblings, Dorothy Miller Mack and Levorn Miller, as well as her beloved stepmother, Mrs. Virginia L. Miller. The family would like to thank all those who touched Shirley's life with joy, humor, kindness, and compassion. Shirley possessed a profound love and appreciation for life, and she endeavored to reflect this in all her interactions. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mrs. Shirley O'Berry, please visit our floral store.