Theodore Shirley III (affectionately known as Ted and Doc by many) was born an only child to WillaDean Hill and Theodore Shirley II on March 23, 1946, in Compton, California. He was blessed to have had a strong fatherfigure - his stepfather, Fred Johnson. As a youth, Ted was an avid intellectual, scientific thinker and charismatic organizer. He excelled at and enjoyed many school activities at Centennial High School. Before graduating in 1964, he was on the gymnastics team and served as Senior Class President.  For his collegiate undergraduate studies, he proudly matriculated at an HBCU - Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee. It was there during the eventful Civil Rights era, that he met his future wife of 58 years, Mildred Elaine Butler. In 1968, they were married in a triple wedding ceremony of 3 Butler sisters in the small town of Eastover, SC.  After his bachelor's degree, Ted continued to Meharry Medical Schoolfor his doctoral degree in dentistry graduating 1972. In 1973, he completed his internship at Martin Luther King Hospital and opened up his private practice near the Coliseum. He was honored to have JesseJackson as a visiting patient.  Throughout his life, Ted was a central personality in his social group, constantly surrounded by friends. His house was a place manyfriends called home. On any given night, Ted'sformer high school, college classmates or professionalfriends could befound playing a game of chess, listening to jazz music or engaging infriendly debate around the kitchen table or the back house guest quarters.  Dr. Shirlₑy was an active civic leader, involved in numerous organizations and political efforts. Notably, he received an awardfor his outstanding contribution to the National Dental Association.  In the 1980s, he became an esteemed member of the Prince Hall Masons. For the last 20 years of his life, Ted was a regitlar parishioner at First United Methodist Church of Compton.  Ted showed resilient through many health challenges during the lastfifteen years of his life.  During this time he was able to continue participating in numerous family milestones and valuable experiences. For this we are very thankful. He was humbled to have been recognizedfor his Perseverance on Mens Day with a gift of a watchfrom the First Church United Methodist Men. Dr. Shirlₑy is survived by his wife, Elaine Shirley, his children, Kia Elaine Plumber(Cornelius), Theo Coltrane Shirley, Frederick Douglas Shirlₑy, Benjamin Shirley(Ana) and Tiffani Michelle Shirley.  Also, hisfive (5) Grandchildren: Maaja Adoyoso Ashemu (1997), Aingkhu Aakhu Ngala Sheps Anpu Ashemu (1999), Saari Akhiasa Ashemu (2006), Cornelius (Neil) Plumber (2002), and Natalie Plumber (2005) Dr. Theodore Shirley will befondly rememberedfar his confidentfiery nature, his hearty laugh and his lovefar life. Although it is not easy to say good-bye, we are happy that he isfinally pain-free and at peace.

�May our Creator continue to bless and keep his spirit�