Tributes

be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. Revelation 2:10 On May 27, 1942 in Dickinson, Texas, a precious gift was given to Rev. Clarence L. Adams and Effie Dorsey Adams as they welcomed their beautiful daughter, Shirley Jean Adams, into this world. Truly a soul destined to impact the lives of others. Shirley’s educational journey began in the public schools of Houston, Texas where she flourished and graduated from of Booker T. Washington High School. She then furthered her academic pursuits, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree (English major/French minor), Master of Education degree (Counseling and Guidance) at Texas Southern University in Houston, Texas; and the Master of Divinity degree was earned at the Houston Graduate School of Theology, Houston, Texas. Rev. Shirley developed a strong knowledge of God and His presence while worshipping and participating in the ministries in three denominations (Methodist, Baptist and Catholic). Her father and uncle were Methodist pastors and she worshiped and grew up in their churches. Her aunt was active in the Baptist church, and she worshiped, participated in ministries and learned about God’s word through the many Bible drills in her church, as well. During the summer months when we were not in public school, we were in Catholic school. So, we grew up worshiping, learning about God and His church and experiencing His love in these three denominations. Embracing her divine calling to spread the profoundly uplifting message of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, she was ordained a pastor on Sunday, March 5, 1989. She was asked to pastor a congregation in the United Methodist Church and accepted the challenge. She served in several United Methodist congregations, including Jones Memorial United Methodist Church, Salem United Methodist Church, Trinity United Methodist Church, Riverside United Methodist Church and Trinity East United Methodist Church. In her free time, she found solace in reading and writing. Rev. Connally played a pivotal role in establishing Emmanuel United Methodist Church where she remained a devoted and faithful member, surrounded by a community of Christian believers. Her unwavering dedication to her faith continued until she was called to her eternal home of July 14, 2025. She wass preceded in death by her father, Rev. Clarence L. Adams and loving sister, Joyce Adams. Left to rejoice in her triumph with Jesus and celebrate her legacy are: Joycelle Hunter-King (devoted daughter), Victor King (son-in-law); Jorian Hunter (Granddaughter); Effie Adams (loving mother); Addie Hayes (sister); Ted Hayes (nephew) and Lakisha Hayes (niece); other beloved family members, fellow clergy and dear friends.

Tributes

Reverend Shirley J. Connally

May 27, 1942 - July 14, 2025