Shirley C Abraham

Shirley was a lifelong Texan with deep roots in Bryan where her love of storytelling, community, and tradition began. She carried her hometown’s warmth, grit, and hospitality with her wherever she went.

After graduating from Stephen F. Austin High School Bryan, she went on to earn her degrees of a Bachelor of Fine Arts from University of Texas, Masters in Educational Media and Technology from East Texas State University (now Texas A&M Commerce) and a specialized graduate (24 hours of coursework) in Speech and Drama from Texas A&M and Southwest Texas University San Marcos. An accomplishment she was immensely proud of earning. She was an enthusiastic and loyal Aggie fan. She cheered on the Aggies with the same passion she brought to every part of her life.

In 1958, Shirley married the love of her life, Ellis Abraham. Their marriage was a lasting partnership—steadfast, joyful, and rooted in faith. They remained devoted to one another throughout their 67 years together.

Guided by a gift for words and a heart for young people, Shirley spent many years teaching at Richardson High School and Richland College in Dallas, as well as College Station Junior High School and Blinn College in Bryan.

She joined Blinn College -Bryan in 1983 she taught Introduction to Speech and Business and Professional Speaking. In recognition of outstanding service to Blinn College and teaching profession she was awarded the 2006 Fine Arts Exemplary Teacher Award. She had a remarkable ability to draw out confidence in her students, encouraging them to find their voice and use it well.

She was a natural storyteller, able to turn even ordinary moments into something memorable. Family and friends often found themselves gathered around her, listening, laughing, and learning.

Shirley was a proud mother of four children, each of whom she loved fiercely. Shirley’s legacy lives on in her children, grandchildren, and all who were shaped by her kindness, humor, and unwavering love.

Shirley is survived by her husband Ellis, sons Andrew and Anthony, daughter Annemarie, and brother Burke Campbell, Jr. Also her four grandchildren Rebecca, Brianna, Maura and Thomas Weis.

She was preceded in death by her daughter Amy, sister Josette Campbell Zoghby, brother David Campbell and father and mother, Burke and Lauris Serur Campbell.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, 401 S. Parker Ave., Bryan, Texas 77803, on May 23, 2026. The Rosary will start at 10:30am with Mass to follow.

Please make memorial to the St. Anthony's lighting project in honor of Shirley Abraham -- make checks out to St. Anthony's Catholic Church and note the donation is for the lighting project in memory of Shirley Campbell Abraham. The address of the church office is 401 S Parker Bryan TX 77803 or call 979 823 8145, ask for Becky if there are questions.