Shirley Mae Sessions Hobbs

Shirley Mae Sessions Hobbs passed away peacefully at home in Gulfport, Mississippi, on March 29, 2016, at the age of 82. Shirley is remembered with love by her devoted husband of 63 years, Norman T. Hobbs; her children: Pamela Tomasovsky, Robert Hobbs, Rhonda Hobbs, Sandra (Joey) Williams, and Steven (Beverly) Hobbs; her sisters: Aratha Oliver, Norma Sessions, Willa Dean Holsomback, Juanita Lott, Joyce Poiroux, and Christine Wilson; and many cherished grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She has joined in Heaven her beloved son David Hobbs, her mother and father, her brothers Oscar Sessions and Presley Sessions, and her sister Maxine Williams. Shirley was born in Punta Gorda, Florida, on July 11, 1933, to Walter and Essie Mae Sessions. She grew up in Grand Bay, Alabama, and later moved to Biloxi where she attended Biloxi High School. Shirley was born during the Great Depression and life was not easy for her family, but their days were filled with adventure and laughter. Shirley loved to share stories of her childhood with her children and grandchildren. In 1953, Shirley and Norman were married and set off for California as he served in the Air Force. During their early years together, the family lived in California, New York, and England. Shirley loved the excitement of traveling and meeting new people along the way. Being a mother and grandmother gave her the most joy. She was born with a natural gift and desire to nurture, love, encourage and generously give to those around her. Everything and everyone blossomed around Shirley. She was known by her grandchildren as “Nana”. She had a childlike zest for life that never ceased. Although she was busy raising children, working, and running a household, she was often seen playing jump rope and basketball in the yard with her children, grandchildren, and neighborhood kids. Shirley had many talents and hobbies including sewing, knitting, cooking, crocheting, and reading. She retired from Walmart after working in several different departments and excelling in each one. She was an active and dedicated member of Cowan Road Baptist Church and deeply loved all of her friends there. She was a woman of strong faith, believing in the power and strength of Jesus Christ’s love, and instilling His truth in all of her children. The family would like to thank all of the healthcare providers at Keesler Air Force Base and Memorial Hospitals for their loving care. A memorial service is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 9, at Cowan Road Baptist Church in Gulfport with a reception to follow at the church. Her pastor, Brother Chris Ashley, will officiate the ceremony. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Shirley Mae’s life. Memorial donations may be made to Cowan Road Baptist Church at 425 Cowan Road, Gulfport, Mississippi 39507. Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, 15th Street, Gulfport is in charge of arrangements. View and sign register book at www.bradfordokeefe.com