Norfolk- Shirley Louise Vaughn Robertson, of Norfolk, Virginia, died May 31, 2021. Born April 17, 1935 in Union, South Carolina, since age 11 Shirley had lived in Norfolk, Virginia, and considered herself a native Norfolkian.
Shirley attended Crossroads Elementary School and graduated from Norview High School in Norfolk. Her brief marriage to Carlos Leonard Robertson, Jr. produced her only child, John. Shirley was employed by the federal government for 33 years at the Naval Communication Area Master Station Lant, rising to Branch Head before her retirement. She was awarded the Meritorious Civilian Service Award for Outstanding Contributions from the Department of the Navy, the third highest Navy civilian award.
After retiring, Shirley remained very active, volunteering as a docent at the Chrysler Museum, reading for the blind at WHRO Public Radio, bowling several times per week in one of the area’s last duckpin leagues, and enjoying frequent walks at the Norfolk Botanical Gardens, in addition to supporting a number of other charitable organizations.
Shirley was predeceased by her mother, Mae Belle Riggs Vaughn and her father, Louie William Vaughn. She is survived by her beloved son and daughter-in-law, John William Robertson and Tobie Serafim, and her grandsons Mark Cioccia (Dori) and Andrew Cioccia (Samantha).
Arrangements are being handled by Cremation and Funeral Services of Tidewater. Burial will be private. The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, a contribution be made to the animal welfare organization of your choice.