Obituary of Shirlee Ann Holyfield

Shirlee Ann Holyfield, Age 70, of St. Paul, Minnesota passed away peacefully on March 17, 2017, surrounded by family and friends. Shirlee was born on June 25, 1946 in Akron, Ohio to the late Flora and Swansy Lee Potts. She graduated in 1964 from South High School in Akron, Ohio and later attended Akron University. Shirlee married, Ray Holyfield and had three children from this union (Rayna, Shalisha, and ToiJya). Prior to her arrival to Minnesota, Shirlee was employed for thirteen years by the Summit County Welfare Department as a Volunteer Coordinator. She was an avid bowler throughout NE Ohio and abroad; winning many tournaments and awards. Shirlee also advocated on behalf of Women’s Rights in the late 60’s and 70’s. In 1978, Shirlee relocated to Minnesota after a series of life changes. She accepted an offer for employment, which launched her career with the State of Minnesota. This opportunity soon brought Shirlee to Cambridge, Minnesota where she raised her three daughters. While in Cambridge, Shirlee was recognized as a Community Organizer, Human Rights Award Winner, Lay Speaker with the United Methodist Church, Educator, Advocate, Singer, Poet, Author, Humorist, and Great Friend. Shirlee served on several committees in East Central Minnesota; including the Cambridge-Isanti Food Pantry. She received the first Isanti County Human Rights Commission Award for dedication and participation in the field of Human Rights. Shirlee held a variety of positions with the State of Minnesota during her 28 year career. With each career opportunity, she was identified as a pioneer, educator, and leader who displayed compassion and modeled the spirit of inclusiveness. Shirlee was invited to serve on the Governor of Minnesota’s Statewide Diversity Team. She was the co-chair of the educational team, which developed a training manual that was used as a resource guide for State agencies. The Department of Human Services also appointed Shirlee to serve as the Merit System Affirmative Action Officer /Consultant for 87 counties. In February 2006, Shirlee retired as a Diversity Director from the State of Minnesota, Department of Agriculture’s Human Resources and Diversity Division. Shirlee loved music, singing, reading, and performing. She was a published poet in the National Library of Poetry. Shirlee also served her community as a volunteer musician for the annual Habitat for Humanity Blues Festival in East Central Minnesota as well as the Twin Cities. She shared her talents for musical ministry at many churches and events. Shirlee utilized her community organizational skills to plan Special Olympic Events and celebrity appearances; including Carol Channing and a concert with Bobby Vee. Shirlee shattered glass ceilings and opened doors for many individuals and families. As a single parent, her greatest achievements in life- who she often described as her best friends and supporters- are her daughters and her grandchildren. Shirlee’s legacy will be carried on by her daughters: Rayna Holyfield of Akron, Ohio; Shalisha “Lisa” Holyfield of Minnesota; and ToiJya Holyfield of Minnesota. Shirlee is survived by three grandchildren; Terry, Jaidan, and Allena. Nieces and nephews include: Alice Michelle Fleetwood-Merritt; Allison Renee Kidd; Sher’lon K. Kidd; Stilton L. Kidd; Raymond E. Kidd; Reverend Lloyd Devon Palms. Shirlee’s love will live on through a host of great nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her sisters; Bettye R. Palms and Dorothy K. Kidd. A Special Thank You to all of Shirlee’s family and friends who keep Shirlee’s memory alive; the Brookdale North Oaks Memory Care Resident Aides; and the Brookdale Hospice Team that loved Shirlee to Heaven. A Memorial Service will be held on June 3, 2017 at the Camphor United Methodist Church, St. Paul, MN followed by a Celebration of Life Gathering. Condolences can be mailed to: P.O. Box 9103, St. Paul, MN 55109. The family has established a Memorial Fund. Memorial Gifts will be accepted at any Affinity Plus Credit Union location or via website (Shirlee Holyfield S2.1 account c/o ToiJya Holyfield). Gift Cards for Flower Donations can be purchased through Bouquets by Carolyn, St. Paul, MN; 651-487-8122.