Shirley Carolyn “Souza” Clements passed away on the evening of May 23, 2025, in Merced, California, at the age of 77. Born on January 10, 1948, in Merced, California to Alfred Souza and Laura Souza, Shirley graduated from Merced High School and attended a short amount of college. Shirley married Walter “Aubrey” Clements, and they had three children; Regina Young (Hereford, TX), Rachel Perry (Eugene, OR), and Marcus Clements (Valley Springs, CA) and resided in Stevinson, California for many years. Shirley was very active in her children’s school and sports events. YES, she was the mom that cheered as one of the loudest, embarrassing her children.
Shirley retired as a teacher’s aide from Hilmar Unified School District with 35 years of service. She had a passion for working with the younger children at Stevinson Elementary School. Her favorite color was purple, and she truly enjoyed making crafts, sewing, crossword puzzles, and from time to time a trip to the casinos for a few hours of slot machines.
She is survived by her children Regina Young, Rachel Perry, Marcus Clements & wife Danielle; her brothers Alfred Souza “Jr” and Michael Souza; sisters Geraldine “Beans” Manning and Bev Souza; along with eight grandchildren, two great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends who loved her deeply.
Shirley is preceded in death by her father Alfred Souza, mother Laura Souza, brother Robert Jones, sister Marilyn Thomas, nephew Alfred “Freddie” Souza II, nieces Caroline “Bunky” Thomas and Jenna Souza, and her granddaughter Payton Clements.
A “Celebration of Life” will be held later, which all who knew, and loved Shirley are welcome to attend to help honor her life.
Shirley Clements is at peace now and dreaming big.
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