The life and legacy of our beloved Dr. Shirley A. Burton began on December 27, 1943, in Roanoke, Virginia, to the late Julia Wilson and John Ferguson. She received her education through the Roanoke City Public School System and graduated from Lucy Addison High School in 1962.

She was raised in a strong religious environment and remained deeply devoted to her faith throughout her life. Most weekends, she spent time at her godmother Maggie Edwards' house. She attended Bibleway Church, where the late Reverend C.P. Jones served as pastor, and later became a member of Zion Apostolic Church under the leadership of the late Pastor Samuel Wright.

On June 7, 1965, Shirley married Robert E. Burton, who was serving in the United States Army at the time of their marriage. Their marriage was blessed with three children: Tracy, Kirk, and Robert II. Family bonds were the cornerstone of Shirley's life, and she treasured the strong support system she built through her marriage and children.

In May 1969, Shirley dedicated her life to the Lord and received the baptism of the Holy Spirit in Petersburg, Virginia. She was actively involved in various church ministries, including the Pastor's Aid Auxiliary, youth ministry, Sunday School teaching, and the missionary department. Her dedication and commitment to God and her church family were evident through her faithful service. Her faith profoundly influenced every aspect of her life, shaping her values and enriching her relationships in profound ways.

Shirley's career path showcased her diverse talents and her deep commitment to serving others. In 1973, she graduated from Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) School in Richmond, Virginia, and worked as a private duty nurse, as well as at Petersburg General Hospital and Southside Virginia Hospital. Her compassion and dedication were particularly evident in her care for individuals with special needs. In 1974, she became a Psychiatric Practical Nurse, providing care for more than 60 children with special needs at Southside Virginia Hospital, located on Fort Lee, Virginia. From 1975 to 1977, she served as the Daycare Director at Zion Apostolic Church, further demonstrating her devotion to nursing and supporting others. Throughout her professional journey, whether in healthcare or childcare, Shirley was fueled by compassion and a heartfelt desire to make a lasting difference in the lives of those she served.

In 1977, her husband's military assignment moved Shirley and the family to Germany, where she worked as a preschool teacher. After returning to the United States, she joined the Psychiatry Department of Nursing at Potomac Hospital in Woodbridge, Virginia. Shirley demonstrated a deep dedication to the healthcare field, particularly in psychiatric care. Her ability to work effectively with both children and psychiatric patients showcased her remarkable versatility, compassion, and commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others through her professional endeavors.

Shirley's educational journey reflected her unwavering dedication to both personal and spiritual growth. She pursued studies at several institutions, including John Tyler Community College in Colonial Heights, Virginia; Mary Washington College in Fredericksburg, Virginia; Harvest Christian College in Fairfax, Virginia; and Cornerstone Bible College in Woodbridge, Virginia. Her academic achievements included a Bachelor of Biblical Studies, Master of Divinity, a Master of Theological Studies, and Doctor of Ministry—each of which highlighted her deep involvement and expertise in matters of faith and religious studies. It was evident that she valued education as a means to enrich her understanding and enhance her service to God within the faith community.

In 1984, Shirley was ordained as Pastor of the Gospel Services at Fort Belvoir, Virginia—a significant milestone in her spiritual journey. For 21 years, from 1984 to 2005, she faithfully served in pastoral ministry, leading the congregation with devotion, wisdom, and guidance. The church was later renamed Christian Hope Center Church (CHCC), known by its declaration: "Where satisfaction is guaranteed because Jesus is Lord!" CHCC services were held at the Woodlawn, Gunston, and Fairfax Chapels on Fort Belvoir, as well as at the Knights of Columbus building in 1989. These locations allowed the ministry to reach and serve diverse congregations and surrounding communities.

In 1992, CHCC relocated to Arizona Avenue in Woodbridge, Virginia, reflecting both the church's growth and a shift in the congregation's needs. Throughout her tenure, Pastor Shirley's leadership undoubtedly left an enduring impact on those she served, fostering a strong sense of spiritual growth, community, and instilling hope within her congregation.

On June 3, 1996, Pastor Shirley took a monumental step in her ministry by founding the Christian Hope Child and Development Learning Center. This initiative marked a significant expansion of her outreach efforts, reflecting her heartfelt commitment to nurturing and supporting the local community. In pursuit of her vision for holistic education and spiritual growth, she also established the Christian Hope Bible College in 2002. This accredited institution was dedicated to providing enriching, spirit-led Bible teaching and learning, welcoming individuals from the community who sought to deepen their understanding of faith and scripture.

In July 2005, Pastor Shirley and her husband, Robert, took a significant step in their spiritual journey, retiring as Pastors of Christian Hope Center Church and becoming members and ordained elders of Victory Christian Ministries International (VCMI) in Woodbridge, Virginia, under the leadership of Apostles Tony and Cynthia Brazelton.  In this new season of her life, she joyfully served as an instructor for the VCMI New Covenant Partners' classes and the Victory Bible College, located in Suitland, Maryland.  Whenever called upon by the Apostles to teach, preach, counsel, or advise, Elder Shirley always did so as unto the Lord.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and two sons, Kirk Burton, and Robert Burton II.

She leaves cherished memories with her loving husband, Robert Burton; daughter, Tracy Burton; and five grandchildren, Chloe Burton, Carlei Burton, Desmond Burton, Nathanyel Burton, and Robert Glynn. She also leaves a very special friend, Edith Smith of Richmond, Virginia; and a host of other relatives and friends.

A viewing will be held at Victory Christian Ministries International, 14015 Minnieville Road, Woodbridge, VA 22193, on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at 10:00 AM followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM. The interment will be held at Quantico National Cemetery, 18424 Joplin Road, Triangle, VA 22172, on Monday, July 28, 2025, at 10:30 AM.

We are confident, I say and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. 2 Corinthians 5:8