Shirley Powell Tilton

Shirley graduated from Immaculata High School in Detroit and Michigan State University with an advanced degree in Botany. When she completed her Masters degree in botany, she set out as a professional, first in NY, then Atlanta and finally settling in Houston, working in the cotton testing industry. While her vocation was horticulture her avocation was travel, exploring over the years more than twenty five countries including visits to Bangkok, Beijing, Hanoi, Katmandu and Machu Picchu. The only continent she never explored was Antarctica. Shirley passed on to her family a rich and wonderful sense of adventure and love of learning about other places and cultures, inspiring her children and grandchildren to explore the world. She was a dedicated amateur Meso-American archeologist and collector.

Shirley was a past member of American Association of Textile Chemist and Colorist, National Council for Horticulture, Orange Show Foundation, Contemporary Arts Museum, Museum of Fine Arts, Outdoor Nature Club and leader of Girl Scout troop 642. She was a pioneer, professional, role model and inspiration to the many whose lives she touched.

Shirley was preceded in death by her son, Captain Patrick Tilton. She is survived by husband, Newell; daughters Julie Pate and husband Terry, Mary Jakab and husband Emery; son Michael Tilton and wife Patty; brother Michael Powell and wife Mary; granddaughters Nicole and Kelly Pate; grandsons Christopher Tilton, Emery, Michael and Patrick Jakab; one great grandson, Brandon Gomez; and numerous nephews and nieces.

A Mass of the Resurrection will be held at 10 AM on Friday, September 24, 2010 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 3617 Milam Street, Houston, TX. Interment will be private at the family’s request.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Association.