Shirley Faye Brooks Ames

Pastor Shirley Faye Brooks Ames, of Cape Charles, Virginia, peacefully transitioned on March 15, 2026, surrounded by love. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and faithful servant of God. Pastor Ames lived a life rooted in faith, strength, and purpose. She carried herself with quiet power and often reminded those around her that the Lord would fight their battles as her spirit always remained unwavered. She was preceded in death by her parents, RC Waldo and Phyllis Brooks; her siblings, Tammy, Willie Mae, Bobby, Marvin, Terrell, and Alvin (Top Cat); her mother-in-law, Alice Ames; and her father-in-law, Cecil Ames. She leaves to cherish her memory: her husband, Cecil Ames; her loving children, Samira, Trovockiyo (TJ), and Leonard (Tromell); her devoted son-in-law, Kent; her cherished grandchildren, Khalilah, Khalil, Mehki, Khori, Shamira, Keira (Mani), Shahan, Kamilah (Milah), and Zariah; her beloved great granddaughter, Kyomi Samira Spady, born February 3, 2026; her siblings, Pastor Frank Jr. Brooks and his wife, Karen; Johnnie, William (Andre); Gwendolyn (Gwen) Smith and her husband,
Erick; and Ray Waldo and his wife, Cindy. She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews,cousins, aunts, uncles, friends, and in-laws, all of whom she loved and cherished.

Pastor Ames was known for her warm and affectionate smile that could light up any room. She found joy in simple pleasures—gardening,taking peaceful walks and resting. She loved spending time with her family, playing spades and deuces. She didn’t take losing well—but it was always met with laughter, love, and togetherness, which created forever cherished memories.

She had a close relationship with her siblings-they shared a deep bond. She always looked out for them—even during times when she did not feel her best. When her daughter would get her on the phone, their conversations would often turn into long moments of laughter and ending with her saying, “Let me get off this phone before you get me started.” She also enjoyed crossword puzzles, watching game shows, and even scrolling on Facebook. Khalil shared an unbreakable bond with her grandmother, Shirley—her best friend. Shirley often called her her “sidekick,” knowing she could always count on her. Whether near or far, Khalil showed up without hesitation, always ready to help. Shirley would often say, “What would I do without you?” and remind her, “You love your grandma Shirley, don’t you?”

Pastor Amen’s love for the Lord was evident in her ministry. She joyfully led praise and worship in nursing homes, traveled to support churches during services and anniversaries and humbly served wherever she was called. Shirley did not just speak faith—she lived it. She leaves behind a legacy of strength, love, and spiritual resilience that will continue through generations. Pastor Ames was not rich in material things, but she was rich in heart. She worked hard to provide, always making sure her family had a hot meal, clean clothes, and a well-kept home. In the home, she took great pride in the way she cared for her space and family. She was known for her exceptional housekeeping—especially when it came to her white clothes. She would soak, rinse, and soak them again over the course of days, making sure everything was done just right. As many would say, “Mr. Clean had nothing on Pastor Shirley.” While she was not known for cooking elaborate meals, she had her own special touch in the kitchen. She made perfectly sliced, caramelized onions, fried to perfection, and paired them with her well-prepared pork and beans with hotdogs. Alongside it all were her warm, buttery Pillsbury biscuits—simple meals made with care that those close to her will always remember. And because her husband Cecil was a fisherman, she became known for her specialty dish—a perfectly seasoned drum fish stew with white potatoes and onions, cooked to perfection, always served with a perfect piece of cornbread made by her side.

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