Shirley Berlin

Shirley Berlin, 73, passed away on June 29, 2026, in Atlanta, Georgia.

Born on June 16, 1953, in Atlanta to Harold and Betty Bright, Shirley was a beloved mother, sister, and friend whose intelligence, compassion, and unwavering curiosity left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

Shirley graduated from Gordon High School in 1970. She worked days and went to night school to earn a degree in psychology, graduating summa cum laude from Georgia State University. Never one to stop learning, she later earned a degree in accounting and became a Certified Public Accountant. She went on to build a successful career, retiring as Chief Financial Officer of the engineering firm Jordan, Jones and Goulding.

To those who knew her, Shirley was most often described as "the smartest person I've ever met." She possessed an extraordinary intellect, but it was matched by an equally generous heart. She had a lifelong love for animals, especially the many stray dogs she rescued and spoiled over the years. She loved feeding birds and other critters, especially a lame chipmunk she named Stump, who would eat from her hand. She found great joy in organic gardening, taking pride in growing things naturally and tending her garden with patience and care. She generously supported animal rescue and conservation organizations throughout her life.

Shirley was also a devoted follower of current events and could effortlessly explain even the most complex news stories-especially political ones. A feminist from an early age, she held strong convictions and lived by them. An avid reader, she treasured both her Kindle Unlimited subscription and her library card. Above all, however, she was an adoring mother who loved her daughter deeply and took immense pride in her.

Shirley is survived by her daughter, Jacqueline Berlin of Seattle, Washington; her sister, Delores Matich of Atlanta, Georgia; her brothers, Richard Bright of Savannah, Georgia; and Lloyd Bright of Senoia, Georgia. She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Betty Bright.

A celebration of Shirley's life will be held on Sunday, July 26, from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Matthews Cafeteria in Tucker, Georgia. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Nature Conservancy.