Shirley Wilkerson Lee, who resided in the 900 block of Princess Anne Rd., departed this life on August 22, 2018 in Norfolk, VA. Mrs. Lee was a native of Norfolk, Virginia and the daughter of the late Rev. Dr. James R., and Mrs. Thelma Mullen Wilkerson.
Mrs. Lee was a graduate of Booker T. Washington High School, Norfolk. She received the B.S. Degree in Biology from Norfolk State University and the M.S. Degree in Earth Science form Franklin and Marshall College, Lancaster, PA. Mrs. Lee also matriculated in Graduate Studies at Vasser College, Poughkeepsie, NY, Hampton University, Petersburg, VA and Old Dominion University, Norfolk,VA. She was the recipient of three National Science Foundation Fellowships. She was a dedicated and enthusiastic teacher of science and inspired her students to excel, while teaching in Norfolk Public Schools, for twenty-four years. She earned a Doctorate Degree in Earth Science.
During her teaching career, Mrs. Lee served as Departmental Chairperson in Science in several schools. While a teacher at Booker T. Washington High School, she was honored as an outstanding teacher by a local organization. Her dedication inspired her students, as she directed their learning activities. She taught teaching science in secondary schools at Norfolk State University.
Having been born into a Christian family, Mr. Lee submitted her life to Christ during her youth and joined New Mt. Vernon Baptist Church, Portsmouth, VA, under the pastorate of her father. She strove incessantly to practice to principles and virtues which were instilled within her by her parents. Faith in God became the hallmark of her life she embraced her father’s motto, “If you have Faith, God has the Power.” Upon the death of her father, Mrs. Lee joined the fellowship of New Calvary Baptist Church, where she sacredly worshiped God in Spirit and in Truth. She was zealous in putting her religious beliefs into action and frequently visited nursing homes to cheer and inspire the residents.
Mrs. Lee was a dynamic inspiration and tower of strength to her family and friends. Her gentle manner, words of encouragement, consolation and beautiful smile are indelibly etched within the hearts of her loved ones.
She leaves to cherish and treasure her memory one aunt, Mrs. Elva Blow of Portsmouth; several cousins, extended family members and friends.
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