Shirley Jean Coles- Burton

Born on Tuesday, February 9, 1937, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Shirley was the cherished daughter of Lucille Freeman- Coles and Clyde Coles, a loving sister to Barbara Coles-Blair, Ronald Coles, Carol Coles-Marin, and Lorraine Coles, and many extraordinary friends. 

She graduated from Westinghouse High School, excelling as a student and leader. She pursued a successful career at Kroger Grocery Store and the United States Postal Service. Her passion for public service was matched only by her commitment to helping others. Shirley worked at Kroger for 15 years, being the only person of color there. She loved her job assisting customers who shopped every day. Later, she went on to work for the United States Postal Service and retired at the age of 65. 

In the year, 1956, she welcomed a daughter, Donna Lee Coles. Love kept them close; however, a new love formed with her late husband, Herbert Martin Burton (died November 6th, 2008). They first met in 1973, one day Herbert asked, “Baby, do you want to get married?” Shirley asked, “Why?” Being together for many years, Shirley thought, “Why now?” Nevertheless, her heart was calling and the two were united in marriage in 2005, they loved one another deeply.

Shirley was a woman who always wanted to help any and everyone. Some of her favorite quotes were, “I can do it,” “Do you want any help.” Or she would just jump in and help. Actively being a part of Homewood AME Zion Church, you would see her helping in the kitchen or working the popcorn machine on Community Day.

One of the main things Shirley loved to do in her spare time was play cards. Growing up, she and her siblings would play cards all night long. If she was working and was off the next day; she would go over to her brother Ronnie (Ronald Coles)’s house. They would prepare dinner at her brother’s house, and some would even do their laundry, they played cards, all night long. Shirley loved going to the Vintage, where she met friends, worked out and even did line dance classes. 

Shirley transitioned on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at UPMC East Hospital in Monroeville, Pennsylvania. 

She is survived by her daughter, Donna Lee Coles, her granddaughter, Kirstyn Smith-Thomas, her grandson, Brandon Thomas and a host of other relatives and friends. Though our hearts are heavy, we celebrate Shirley’s incredible life and the countless lives she touched. Her spirit, warmth, and love will live on forever in our hearts.

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