Shirley Christine Jackson-Bay

Shirley Christine Jackson-Bay, 73, passed away on June 28, 2026. She was a beloved presence—strong in her faith in God, steady in her care for others, generous to the core, and blessed with a warm sense of humor that could lift a room without asking for anything in return.

Shirley was born in Trinidad & Tobago on December 5, 1952, to George Salandy and Grace McCarthy. In 1984, she migrated to Houston, Texas, welcomed by her paternal aunt, Teresa Holder (aka Aunt Louise), where she paved the way for her family. Shirley embraced her new life while savoring the culture reminiscent of Trinidad and Tobago. She carried with her the flavors, music, and spirit of her upbringing in ways that drew people close and made them feel welcome.

For over 20 years, Shirley worked as an X-ray technician for few different companies and retired with UTMB. Her work reflected who she was: attentive, giving, and quietly devoted—someone who showed up with competence and compassion, offering reassurance with a steady hand and, when it helped most, a well-timed laugh.

At home, Shirley’s love spoke in everyday joys. She loved to cook Caribbean food and feed everybody, and there was something unmistakably tender in the way she nurtured others—through a full plate, a shared moment, an open door. She enjoyed gardening, exercising, Caribbean music, sitcoms, game shows and movie nights, finding comfort in simple pleasures and delight in the everyday.

Shirley was married to Cleo Bay for 8 years before his passing in 2021. She was also preceded in death by her mother; son Owin Danzell; and 3 siblings Elvis McCarthy, Rose Francis, and Michael McCarthy.

She is survived by daughter Cherryann Danzell-Edwards and her husband Gerard; son Christopher Danzell; grandchildren Cameron Edwards, Alexander Edwards, Gabriel Danzell, Dominic Danzell, and Josyah Danzell; sister Sandra Lewis; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at 10:00 am at Forest Park East Funeral Home, located at 21620 Gulf Freeway in Webster, Texas.