Shirley Vernola Bell was born December 10, 1936, the 15th of 18
children born to Edgar Roy and Dottie Lampkin Bell in Dover, Oklahoma.

Shirley attended Booker T. Washington High School, where she was an
outstanding Basketball player.  Shirley spoke often of her childhood on
the farm, she said that is something she wished everyone had an opportunity
to experience.

Shirley married Luciaus Poole and six children were born to this union.
She later married Lonnie Gray who preceded her in death.

Shirley went on to become a graduate of a Business College in 2000 and spent 2 years
employed at H&R Block.

Shirley accepted Christ at an early age. Shirley and her children  attended Paradise Baptist Church. She
enjoyed going to church, reading her Bible and working all kinds of puzzles.  She loved to laugh and say
things that made others laugh! She had a great sense of humor! She was a Pistol!! Some of her favorite
hobbies were sewing, quilting, crocheting and playin BINGO!

She leaves to cherish her memory her 6 children, Rickey (Rose), Lenore (Davy), Clayton (Angelia) Dianna,
Alice and Gretta. Two brothers Marquis Bell and Winston Bell and one sister Inez Owens. Twenty-one
grandchildren, thirty-five great grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.