The resolution mourns the passing of Mrs. Shirley Ann Ross, who died on February 7, 2026, in Montgomery, Alabama. Born on May 23, 1945, in Mauvilla, Alabama, she was a dedicated educator with over 35 years of service in the Pontiac School District in Michigan, where she made a significant impact as a teacher, librarian, and media center specialist. Mrs. Ross was known for her gentle nature, generosity, and commitment to serving others, as well as her love for reading, writing, travel, and gardening. She was deeply involved in her community, volunteering at Baptist Medical Center South after her retirement and remaining actively engaged with her alma mater, Alabama State University.

The resolution highlights Mrs. Ross's guiding principle of living simply to help others and acknowledges her family, including her three children and numerous grandchildren. It reflects on her legacy of kindness and service, emphasizing that while her death leaves a void, her memory will be cherished by all who knew her. The Alabama Legislature expresses its deepest sympathy to her family and honors her life through this resolution, celebrating the positive impact she had on her community and loved ones.