Shirlene Winston

Shirlene Winston, affectionately known as “Auntie”, “Grandma” or “Mother Winston” was born March 26, 1929 to the late Benjamin and Missouri Humburd. Shirlene transitioned this life to life everlasting on February 16, 2026 at the Goldwater Care Nursing Facility in Danville, Illinois at the glorious age of 96 years.

Shirlene met and married the love of her life, Gilbert Junior Winston on June 4, 1971 in Urbana, Illinois. They were in love for 23 years as Gilbert transitioned to life everlasting in 1995. Shirlene was active in her church and community serving in many roles and committees earning her the title as “Mother Winston” at the Morning Star Freewill Baptist Church. 

Shirlene cherished the many moments of her life with family and friends during barbecues, gatherings for Thanksgiving, birthdays, church events and much much more. Shirlene’s friends were as important as family and many a happy time was had at her home or at Cracker Barrel and Perkins Restaurant which were her favorite places to dine. She loved shopping at thrift stores, boutiques and was a collector of antiques which filled her home.

Shirlene loved the Lord with all her heart and soul. She enjoyed people, places and things. When she met you it always was with a smile. That was her “Super Power”….Her Smile! She used her smile as an example of God’s unconditional love for everyone.If you heard her say “Hey Babe!” you felt her love. Her acts of kindness were quiet yet powerful. No pat on the back or recognition necessary . Just the way God wanted her and all of us to be.

Shirlene will greatly be missed and forever remembered.

She is survived by her step daughter, Stephany Winston-Howardof Champagne, Illinois, her nephews Carl H. Collins (Shardel)of Fishers Indiana and Donald Caswell (Laura) of Kansas City, Missouri. Her nieces, Cheryle Steward (Micheal) of Raymore, Missouri and Pearline Wyatt (Kapelle /RIP) of Kansas City,Missouri. Her grandsons, Karlos Winston (Zela) of Virginia Beach, Virginia, Kalan Winston (Monica) of Jefferson, Indiana, Arthur Howard of Champagne Illinois, and her special grand daughter Tiffanie Terry of Champagne/Urbana along with 14 great grand children.

Shirlene also cherished and leaves behind special friends who were like family to her, Delores, Evelyn, Edna, Betsy, Thelma, Quenton, Sterling, Barbara, Freddie Jr. , Alexis, Makailah and a special heart felt love for Adele.

 A celebration of life will commence at 12:00 Noon Wednesday February 25, 2026 at Leek & Sons Funeral Home 1215 W. Bradley Ave., Urbana. Visitation will begin at 11:00 am until the time of the service. Interment: Woodlawn.

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