Greer, South Carolina

Shirley Mae Greer Fulton passed away peacefully on November 11, 2024, at Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital. Born on May 2, 1939, she was the beloved daughter of Garlin Columbus Greer and Lillian Durham Greer. Shirley was the second oldest of seven children and a proud alumna of Lincoln High School, where she shined as an outstanding basketball player. Her remarkable athletic ability helped lead her team to the District One Title in 1957, earning her the nickname "The Goose" for her height and skills. Shirley was later honored by being inducted into the Piedmont Athletic Hall of Fame.

Shirley was married to the love of her life, James Fulton, Sr., for 54 years before his passing in 2020. Together, they raised three children and traveled extensively in the early years of their marriage due to James' military service. Shirley was a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend, known for her warm heart, quick wit, and infectious sense of humor. Her home was a gathering place for family and friends, filled with laughter, good food, and unforgettable memories.

In her professional life, Shirley was dedicated to the Greenville County Schools, where she worked for 18 years before retiring in 2014. She had a passion for cooking and was especially known for her delicious pies. Her hobbies included arts and crafts, in which she enjoyed making beautiful floral arrangements, gardening, and working on word puzzles. Shirley was a proud supporter of her grandchildren and could often be found cheering them on in their various sports and activities. A long-time member of New Salem Baptist Church, she was a woman of faith who brought kindness and positivity to everyone she encountered.

In recent years, Shirley resided at the NHC facility, where she was loved by both the staff and fellow residents. Known as "Queen" by many, she took part in activities like BINGO and arts and crafts, bringing joy and laughter to everyone around her. Despite facing health challenges, she maintained a positive attitude and continued to uplift those around her with her resilience and gracious spirit.

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, James Edward Fulton, Sr.; her maternal grandparents, Plummer Durham and Tecora Peters Durham; paternal grandparents, Beattie Greer and Aleatha Goodlett Greer; her sisters, Azalea Harris, Sharon Middleton, and Frankie Whiteside; her brothers, Walter Greer, Sr. and Donald Greer; and her son-in-law, Roosevelt Downs, Jr.

She leaves behind her three loving children, Deborah Downs, James Fulton, Jr. and Dameka Aiken; 10 grandchildren, Antonio Downs, Lakia Downs, Ratysha Downs, Kamaria Downs, Kelkcee Fulton, Azariah Fulton, Jakobe Fulton, Brett Fulton, Jared Fulton, and Qamar Fulton; seven great-grandchildren, Zakiyah, Ryann, Marley, Brennon, Emori, Zuri, and Khalid; two great-great-grandchildren, Carmen and Camaree; brother, Roger (Catherine) Greer; brother-in-law, William Fulton, Sr.; sister-in-law, Karen Greer; and a host of other family members and dear friends.

Shirley will be remembered for her warm, giving heart, her love for family, and her unwavering strength. She leaves a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories for all who were fortunate to know her. Her light will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

Funeral service will be Satruday, November 16, 2024, 12:00 Noon at Sullivan Bros. Mortuary Chapel with burial to follow in Greenville Memorial Gardens.  Public viewing will be on Friday, November 15, 2024, starting at 2:00 PM until 6:00 PM at the Mortuary.

Please sign the online guestbook and share words of encouragement for the Fulton family to read.

The Fulton family is being cared for by Sullivan Bros. Mortuary Inc and Cremation Centers of South Carolina