Shirley Aileen (Williams) Rees

Shirley Aileen Williams Rees, 92, passed away peacefully in her home on January 22, 2022. She was born to her parents, the late John and Florence Williams, on July 30, 1929 in Providence, Rhode Island.  After graduating from Classical High School in Providence, she received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Mary Washington College of the University of Virginia, and obtained her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania.

Shirley is predeceased by her husband Clifford Rees and her brother John Williams Jr. She is survived by her sister, Ruth Webb; daughters, Aileen Lisko and Heather Rees; granddaughters, Samantha Schlosburg and Ashley Calp, and her husband Brad Calp; and great grandchildren, Taylor and Mason.

Shirley dedicated decades of her life to serving those who were unable to advocate for themselves. Her compassion, understanding and dedication to improve the quality of life for other people took her to many different places including Philadelphia, London, Boston, New Jersey, Maryland, and D.C. 

Most notably, Shirley pioneered legislation that changed the language used regarding intellectually disabled people. Shirley’s efforts literally changed the conversation surrounding intellectual disabilities and made sure to humanize and recognize all walks of life.

One of Shirley’s proudest achievements was founding the theater group, “Players Unlimited.” This arts program consisted of actors, all with disabilities, and their performances brought joy to all involved, i.e., to the participants and to their communities.

Shirley will be profoundly missed by all of those who have been impacted by her kindness, dedication and compassion.  A memorial service celebrating her life will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, January 30, 2022 at Carrollton Church of God, 1901 Carrollton Rd., Finksburg, MD 21048.  The service will be livestreamed at https://www.facebook.com/MDFHWestminster/. for those unable to attend.  Interment in Rhode Island will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Shirley Rees’ name to BridgingLife Hospice at BridgingLife Development Office, 200 Memorial Avenue, Westminster, MD 21157.  410-871-7220   https://gratitude.lifebridgehealth.org/page/28430/donate/1