I hate that I cannot be in Chicago to celebrate the life of my beautiful friend, Shirley. I met Shirley and Eddie 20 years ago and have been blessed with their wonderful friendship ever since. Whether it had been 2 weeks or 2 years since our last conversation, Shirley and I never missed a beat. She had the gift of making friends feel comfortable and letting them know she was there for them. Of course, it only took being around Shirley for a minute or so before you recognized her unconditional love for her family. That love was at the core of her beauty--both inside and out. I will miss Shirley's friendship and the example she set as a mother. I know her beloved family will miss her presence every day but please be comforted by the fact that you will continue to be blessed each and every day of your lives with her love. God bless.