Ms. Shirley H. Romine

Shirley Ann Hartman Romine was born in Bowling Green, Kentucky on August 20, 1930. She died on January 9, 2013 following a brief illness, in Oak Park Illinois. As a young child her family moved frequently, settling in Pacific, Missouri. Upon moving to Memphis, Shirley attended Bellevue Jr. High School, and graduated from Central High in 1948. From the time she was a small child, she knew she wanted to be a teacher, lining up her dolls and playing school. After graduating from Memphis State University, with a BS in Education and a minor in Home Economics, Shirley began her 44-year-long career as an elementary school teacher. She taught mostly first grade, at Hollywood, then Snowden and finally Vollentine Elementary Schools. In 1969, she graduated with a M. Ed. from Memphis State (University of Memphis). Over the years, she was especially thrilled to reconnect with former students who remembered her well. Shirley met her husband Martin on a blind double date with other people, they began a courtship that lasted 7 years and married on June18, 1960. Shirley often remarked that theirs was "a marriage made in heaven." Shirley's life was built on a strong Southern Baptist foundation. She was baptized a Christian in the Merrimac River. She and Martin were very active members of the Union Avenue Baptist Church. In the Bethany Class (Women's Sunday School) which Shirley taught, she developed deep, life-long friendships. She was a member of the Banner Ministry, crafting beautiful banners for many occasions, and the Peabody Elementary School ministry. She also made many dinners for the shelter program. Mrs. Romine's leadership talent was evident in her work with the Memphis Education Association. She held a variety of offices and served two terms as President; during one term she led the bargaining team for the teacher's contract. Shirley was an unabashed supporter of excellent public education, meeting with legislators and elected officials to garner support for the teachers and students in Memphis schools. One highlight was attending the 1993 Inauguration of President Bill Clinton. Even in retirement Shirley was active, holding several offices with the Memphis and Shelby County Retired Teachers Association; she was proud to be President in 2006-7. Throughout her career, she won many awards. She enjoyed travelling, often in the company of her sister Doris Jean, and was able to visit Egypt, Ireland England and France. Over the years Shirley, who loved animals, was devoted to her many dogs, cats and the occasional bird. Mrs. Romine's talents included decorating for every holiday, but especially Christmas. She was an expert seamstress, an avid crocheter, knitter and needle pointer; among many craft projects she made purses, dolls and Christmas ornaments. The hand-smocked outfits she made for all new babies in the family were exquisite. Shirley Romine is preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Martin M. Romine, niece Karen Barden, cousin Corynne Arney, and dear friend Marion Peete. Shirley leaves behind her daughter Corynne, (Michelle Mascaro) grandchildren Emma, David, Joseph, and Ian; beloved big sister Doris Jean VanHooser; nieces Joanne Cox, Carol Malone, Shirley Bringle, and Linda Brown; nephews Rodger Romine and Jim Hayes; cousin Anne Arney; numerous great nieces and nephews; Marsha Peete Reed; and countless students whom she taught in first grade. Visitation will be Tuesday, January 15, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., Memphis Funeral Home, 5599 Poplar Ave. The Funeral Service will be Wednesday, January 16, 10 a.m., Union Avenue Baptist Church, 2181 Union Avenue, burial at Memphis Memory Gardens immediately following. Memorial donations may be made to Union Avenue Baptist Church, an animal shelter or your neighborhood elementary school. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.memphisfuneralhome.net. Memphis Funeral Home And Memorial Gardens 5599 Poplar Ave. (901)725-0100

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