Shirley McCall Fennell, a formidable advocate for civil rights, a pillar of her community, and a cherished matriarch, passed away December 23, 2023, at Forsyth Medical Center in Winston-Salem, NC. She was born on May 19, 1946, in Winston-Salem, NC, as the fifth of seven children to Rev. George James McCall and Pearl Baynes McCall Clinard.

Her early years were steeped in a rich Christian upbringing, finding solace and inspiration at Mars Hill Baptist Church, where her mother was a Founder and her father served as Chairman of the Board of Deacons. Shirley's commitment to her faith as a youth extended to her active participation in Sunday School and the Junior Choir at Middle Fork Christian Church.

Educated at Carver School, then Anderson Junior High School. Shirley graduated in 1964 from Anderson Senior High School before furthering her education at Winston-Salem State University.  Her professional journey commenced with an administrative role at R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company, where her dedication and expertise marked her career until her retirement.

Shirley's courage and determination against injustice were evident from a young age. In 1963, at age 17, she fearlessly protested against segregation and inequality, enduring a week in jail for her convictions as a result of protesting at K&W Cafeteria. Her involvement in the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) led her to participate in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s historic March on Washington in 1963, where she stood alongside 250,000 individuals advocating for an end to segregation and for civil rights. In a serendipitous encounter at a high school party, she met George Fennell, Jr., her beloved husband. Together, they nurtured a loving family, blessed with three children: Lt. Colonel (retired) Robert (Tina) Fennell, Sr., Lisa Fennell, and Anthony (Tomika C.) Fennell.

Shirley's dedication to Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church and her profound service were undeniable. Her involvement spanned various roles—from serving on the Sunday School, Board of Christian Education, Pulpit Committee, Finance Committee, to being a Trustee. Under the pastorate of Dr. Joseph B. Parks, she was ordained as a Deaconess, solidifying her commitment to the church. Later, she continued her faithful service at Zion Memorial Missionary Baptist Church until her health declined where she served on the Finance Committee, the Missionary Society, and the Culinary Team.

Her commitment to community service was unparalleled. Shirley dedicated her time to various organizations, including volunteering at the National Black Theater Festival, Diggs-Latham Elementary School, and actively participating in Anderson High School Class of 1964 Reunion Committee; Anderson High School Alumni Association, the Order of Eastern Star; the Happy Hill Senior Citizens Club; Secretary of the McCall Family Travel and Savings Club, Vice President of the National McCall Family Association and a member of RJR's Network 2000.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents; stepfather; beloved husband, George Fennell, Jr.; siblings, James G. (Irene) McCall, Pearline B. McCall, Maxine M. Newell, Nelsie M (Frank) Wright, and Spencer (Sandra D.) McCall; sister-in-law, Willie Mae Fennell Hale; and a brother-in-law, Charlie Brown.

She leaves behind a legacy cherished by her three children; a sister (who was like a twin), Brenda L. McCall; brother-in-law, Ralph Newell, Sr.; sister-in-law, Ethel Brown; a step-sister, Theola East; eight grandchildren, Brittany, Robert, Jr., Carlissa, Breanna, Stephany, Denard, Marina, and Brookelynn Fennell; three great-grandchildren, Brielle, Kayla, and Noah Fennell; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends, including devoted cousin, Dr. Nelson (Nancy) McCall; and  exceptionally close friends, Stephany Ledbetter, Lois Young, Minister Clara Goode, and the Anderson High School Class of 1964.

Shirley's remarkable life, marked by her unwavering dedication to justice, faith, family, and community, will forever be remembered and cherished for generations to come.

A viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 5:00pm Thursday, December 28, 2023 at Russell Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 12noon Friday, December 29, 2023 at Zion Memorial Baptist Church. Interment will follow in Piedmont Memorial Gardens. The family visitation will be held from 11:30am until 12noon on Friday at the Church.