Shirley Chandler

August 31, 1955 - March 2, 2022

Shirley Chandler, affectionately known as “Big Baby”, was born August 31,1955 in Indianapolis, Indiana to Mr. and Mrs. Elijah and Mamie Chandler. She was very close to her parents and siblings and enjoyed spending quality time with her loved ones especially during the holidays and special gatherings with uncles, aunts, and cousins. Shirley graduated from Shortridge High School and grew up in Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church where she accepted Christ at an early age. There, she participated in the choir, junior usher board, Sunday School and Baptist Training Union. She was also actively involved in the Baptist Youth Camp. She later joined Emmanuel Missionary Baptist Church with her daughter and other family members. Shirley was a wonderful caregiver to everyone. First, to her daughter Dawn Cherise Chandler who required special care. She made sure Dawn was happy and always had everything she needed and wanted. With great integrity and honor, she cared for her mother and father toward the latter end of their lives. She did not stop there; she continued to provide care to those in need within her direct community. In addition, she was very caring and affectionate to her many nieces and nephews. Shirley never knew a stranger and was a generous soul to all. She was considered to be the life of the party while socializing with her friends and catching up on the latest news. Her sense of humor was contagious. She was unselfish and dependable. Anyone who knew her, knew they had someone they could count on. She was the protector, the babysitter, the confidant, and so much more to many people. Shirley was a great cook, known for her famous macaroni and cheese, greens, oxtails (passed down from Mamie), fried chicken and fish. She would call you and say “I’m cooking!” and we all made sure we got over to the house. She would even bless those at places she would frequently visit with samples of her food. Shirley would continue to illustrate her love to others through food up until it became more difficult for her to cook. Her fight with cancer was truly a testament of her character, strength and perseverance. She fought until God called her home with her family faithfully by her side. On March 2, 2022 at 8:07 pm God and his sovereignty decided it was time to bring our dear Shirley home to rest. Her light shined and she touched so many people. Showing her love was her most precious gift she left behind. We will forever miss her and her beautiful spirit will live within us all. Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Elijah and Mamie Chandler, daughter Dawn Cherise Chandler, brothers Elijah Chandler Jr., William Chandler, and Cornelius Ward Chandler. She leaves to cherish her memory to her sisters Myrtle Beard, Darlene Jackson, Robin Miles, and Dorothy Venable, and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, extended family and friends. Shirley Chandler, 66, passed on March 2, 2022. Visitation and services will be held on Monday, March 14, 2022 at Emmanuel Missionary Baptist Church, 4958 Ribble Road. Visitation 10-11am with services to follow at 11am. Interment will be in Crown Hill Cemetery. Please keep the family in your prayers.