Shirley Ann Townsend Washington was born in Earle, Arkansas on April 19th, 1951. Her twin sister, Joyce Townsend Hardiman was born very soon after. Shirley was the second of seven children born to John H. Townsend Jr. and Ruby House Townsend.

Shirley transitioned to rest on October 16th, 2020. Her arrival to heaven will be greeted by her father John, twin sister Joyce, and a stellar lineage of relatives. Her Mother Ruby passed on October 27th, 2020. Shirley and Ruby had the distinct privilege of spending their last days together at New Mark Care Center.

Shirley attended Hawthorne Elementary, Northwest Junior High, Washington High School in Kansas City, KS and The University of Kansas in Lawrence, KS.

Family meant everything to Shirley and she was passionate about capturing those special moments with photos. Shirley greatly enjoyed dancing, traveling, and was our original fashionista, always dressed and matching from head to toe.

She married and moved to California, returning in 2004 to be near her beloved family. Her smile, dance moves, sense of humor, and gracious temperament will always be remembered. She had a generous and encouraging spirit that we will cherish forever. Shirley requested the Commodores' song "Zoom" as her home going serenade and Red was her favorite color. We'll continue to smile whenever we hear Zoom or wear Red.

Thank you to our friends and family, the staff at New Mark Care Center and everyone who has covered us with your prayers and thoughts. A sister is God's way of making sure we never walk alone.

Shirley is survived by her siblings, Ruby Townsend Elmore, TX; A. Marie Young, MO; John H. Townsend III (his wife, Kaye Townsend) MO; Christopher Townsend (his wife, Patrice Townsend & their daughter Candice Townsend) KS; Jill Townsend (her husband, Joe Johnson & their daughters Lourdes & Sydney Johnson) KS. Nieces and Nephews, Tyrone Elmore, TX; Litdra Young (her husband, Sherman Flenory), MO; Suzette Hardiman, MO; Erica Wilson (her husband, Jake Wilson & their son Henry Wilson) MO; as well as Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins all whom she loved dearly

Private graveside services. Services conducted by Duane E. Harvey Funeral Directors. Condolences may be shared on our website.

Due to COVID-19 Pandemic all guests are required to wear face masks.