Shirley Like Santa Cruze's Obituary
Mrs. Shirley Like Santa Cruze was born in St. Louis, Missouri on December 13,
1939. She was the 9th child of 10 born to Harry and Madge Like. Shirley had
seven sisters, Ruby, Lola, Marilyn, Dorothy, Elaine, Jeanette and Cleo; and two
brothers, Orville and Earl.
Shirley attended Hadley Tech where she was the lead Majorette. She was a
strong believer in the Lord, and had a giving heart. Shirley was a teacher and
an entrepreneur who ran several businesses. For many years she ran a
janitorial service that grew bigger than she’d expected, and she also owned a
gift shop.
Shirley enjoyed singing, dancing, supporting her family, and all kids. She had a
big, bold, fun personality, and loved family functions. Shirley always made
time for family or whomever needed advice, a kind word, or for her to just
share a thought. She never met a stranger and was never too busy to resolve
whatever the issue might be. Shirley was a talker…but also a great listener!
Shirley had six children, Pamela (Robbie), Donnell Goodye (Jessica), Debra,
Leonard, James (Robin), and Jamel (Telly). She had thirteen grandchildren,
Donnella, Chanta, Donnell, Madge, Angel, LeAnna, Jamela, Alexis, Kaiya,
Mariah, Deonta, Jarvus and Shanese. She also had a host of great and greatgreat grandkids, and a long list of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who
loved her dearly.
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, two of her kids, Debra and
Leonard, her two brothers and four of her sisters, Marilyn, Dorothy, Elaine, and
Jeanette. Jamela, “our angel,” and three very blessed great grandsons, Devyn,
Aaron and Demonz also preceded her in death.
Shirley will be missed by all. We mourn her loss, but rejoice for Heaven’s gain,
for we know she is free from pain and living in the place that Jesus prepared
for everlasting life.
What’s your fondest memory of Shirley?
What’s a lesson you learned from Shirley?
Share a story where Shirley's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Shirley you’ll never forget.
How did Shirley make you smile?
