Shirley Thomas

Obituary For Shirley Thomas

Shirley Thomas
Oct 16, 1951 — Jun 22, 2026

Shirley Ann Tisdale Thomas, a lifelong resident of Nashville, Tennessee, built a profound legacy of love, faith, and dedication to her community. Born on October 16, 1951, she thrived as the cherished daughter of the late Charles Sr. and Earline Oglesby.

A woman of deep spiritual foundations, Shirley accepted Christ at an early age, a faith that guided her steps throughout her entire life. She joined Smithfork Statesville Missionary Baptist Church in Statesville, TN soon afterward where she remained a committed member, serving diligently as the church secretary, a Sunday School teacher, kitchen committee member, and choir singer for most of her adult life. In 2024, she united with the Ephesian Primitive Baptist Church family. She was educated in the Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) and went on to become a proud graduate of the Tennessee State University (TSU), where she laid the groundwork for her lifelong passion for education.

In 1975, Shirley was united in holy matrimony to the love of her life, the late Andrew “AJ” Thomas. Together, they built a beautiful home filled with warmth and laughter, and were blessed with two children, Jonathan and Alysha.

Shirley’s true professional calling was found in the hearts of children. She was a devoted educator within the MNPS system for over 30 years until her retirement in 2005. For decades, she taught second grade at Amqui Elementary School in Madison, Tennessee, where she didn't just teach lessons from a textbook—she instilled confidence, kindness, and a love for learning in generations of young students. Her patience, vibrant spirit, and dedication made her a beloved fixture in the halls of Amqui Elementary.

Beyond her career, Shirley always possessed a joyful zest for life and an adventurous spirit. She loved to travel, explore new places, and see the world. As a fiercely proud TSU alumna, one of her absolute greatest joys was hitting the road for Tennessee State football games along with Sem’s Crew. Alongside her cherished circle of closest friends, Shirley brought unmatched energy, laughter, and Big Blue pride to every road trip and tailgate, creating beautiful memories spanning decades. Known for her radical hospitality, Shirley could always be counted on to open her doors and throw the best annual Super Bowl party, complete with her famous fried fish and spaghetti, potato salad, and cherry cheesecake, that the world had ever seen.

Above all, Shirley lived as a pillar for her family. Her role as a mother and “Yan Yan” was her greatest joy, and her warmth, wisdom, and unconditional love will continue to be a guiding light for everyone who experienced her love.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, AJ Thomas; her parents, Charles and Earline Oglesby, sister, Barbara Oglesby, and brother, Benjamin Oglesby.

Her legacy lives on and is proudly carried forward by her devoted children, Jonathan and Alysha (Trey Frierson), beloved grandchildren, George Perry, III (Jordan), Isaiah Perry, Alyssa Perry, Thaddeus Frierson, Areya Frierson, brother, Charles Oglesby Jr., and a host of nieces and nephews, extended family, former students, colleagues, and dear friends.

Viewing:

Thursday, July 2, 2026

12:00 - 5:00 pm (Central time)

Terrell Broady Funeral Home, Inc.

3855 Clarksville Pike, Nashville, TN 37218

Visitation:

Friday, July 3, 2026

11:00 am - 12:00 pm (Central time)

Funeral Service:

Friday, July 3, 2026

Starts at 12:00 pm (Central time)

Ephesian Primitive Baptist Church

1506 22nd Ave North, Nashville, TN 37208

Interment:

Monday, July 6, 2026

Starts at 10:00 am (Central time)

Greenwood Cemetery North

1248 Dickerson Road, Goodlettsville, TN 37072

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