It is with profound sadness and great love that we announce the passing of Shirley Annette Nichols, a vibrant light in our lives, who transitioned on January 15, 2025. Shirley, also known as "Bono" by her friends and family, was born on August 15, 1959, in the chocolate city of Washington D.C., in the close knit community on 37th Place. Shirley grew up in a large family as the youngest of 9. She left Eastern High School in the 70s to pursue her passion in cosmetology, where she became one of the greatest stylists in D.C to date. Her work could be spotted all around D.C.

After venturing to Denver, Colorado, she quickly fell in love with Michael Reeves and had their daughter. She went on to create the beautiful ecosystem, now legacy, she leaves behind full of love and resilience. Shirley was known for her vibrant style, loving energy, forgiving heart and beaming, beautiful smile. Shirley's home was a place of refuge and healing for many in her life. She had a natural gift of seeing the beauty and the broken in people and loving them there. She believed deeply in the power of collectivism, of loving people out loud and giving your authentic self to the world as a gift. Shirley will be remembered in Anita Baker and Earth Wind and Fire playlists, through bountiful Sunday dinners and plant vines trailing sunlit walls, in boisterous laughter and generosity that feeds generations.

Shirley is survived by her beloved daughter, Tyreesa Reeves, her loving mother, Saint Bernice Askew, her sisters [Jeanette Askew, Juanita Askew, Denise Askew], her brothers [Reginald Nichols and Russell Nichols] and her dearest friend and soulmate, Crystal Noel. Shirley is preceded in death by her father, James "Jimmy" Nichols and her brothers Benjamin Leon Short, Thomas Short and James Askew. It cannot go without saying Shirley leaves behind a village full of friends, chosen family, mothered children and each soul she impacted. A memorial service will be held on Friday, January 31, 2025, at 1:00 PM MST, at the Harris Funeral Directors, located at 9722 East 16th Avenue, Aurora, Colorado, 80010.

Shirley's life was a testament to choosing love in everything you do. We celebrate her wisdom, honor her impact and carry her with us. As her favorite quote would say, "And the beat goes on. Just like my love, everlasting."

We encourage friends and family to share their memories and upload photos of Shirley on her memorial page. May her life be a reminder to us all to live with passion, kindness, and joy.