Quick Bio
| Full Name | Shirley Anne Watts Kyles Green |
|---|---|
| Born | July 28, 1948, in Oregon, USA |
| Died | July 17, 2023 (Age 74) in Mobile, Alabama |
| Famous For | Ex-wife of soul singer Al Green |
| Occupation | Military Colonel, Background Singer, Advocate |
| Military Rank | Colonel (Retired) |
| Married to Al Green | June 1977 – February 1983 |
| Children | Three daughters: Alva, Rubi, and Kora Green |
| Known For | Helping abuse victims, military service, gospel music |
| Religion | Baptist/Christian |
Who Was Shirley Kyles?
Shirley Kyles was much more than just the wife of a famous singer. She was a strong woman who lived a full life with many different roles. Most people know her because she was married to Al Green, the legendary soul singer. But Shirley’s story is really about courage, faith, and helping others.
Born in Oregon in 1948, Shirley grew up in a religious family. Her father was a Baptist preacher, and church music was always part of her life. She learned to sing in church choirs when she was young. This love for gospel music would later bring her to meet Al Green.
But Shirley wasn’t just a singer. She also served in the United States military and became a Colonel. This means she reached a very high rank in the army. For a woman, especially an African American woman in her time, this was a big achievement. She was a leader who showed courage and strength throughout her military career.
Early Life and Growing Up
Shirley Anne Watts was born on July 28, 1948. She spent most of her childhood in Chicago, Illinois. Her parents were Larry Samuel Focht and Astrid Eugenia Eleanora Focht. They raised their children with strong Christian values.
Growing up in a Baptist family meant that church was very important. Shirley’s father worked as a Baptist preacher, so faith and service to others were taught from an early age. These values would help Shirley later in life when she faced difficult times.
As a young woman, Shirley loved to sing. She joined church choirs and sang gospel music. Her voice was beautiful and full of emotion. People who heard her sing could feel the spirit in her voice. This talent would later connect her to the music world and to Al Green.
Shirley’s Military Career
One of Shirley’s biggest achievements was her military service. She joined the United States Army and worked her way up to become a Colonel. This is a very high position that requires years of hard work, leadership, and dedication.
In the military, Shirley was known for:
- Strong leadership skills
- Breaking barriers for women and African Americans
- Mentoring young officers
- Serving as a combat veteran
- Creating training programs that are still used today
Being a Colonel meant she had important responsibilities. She led teams, made difficult decisions, and earned the respect of everyone around her. Her military career showed that she was brave, smart, and determined.
Many women looked up to Shirley because she succeeded in a field where men were the majority. She proved that with hard work and faith, anything is possible.
Meeting Al Green
In 1976, Shirley’s life changed when she met Al Green. The meeting happened at a Baptist church in Memphis, Tennessee. At that time, Al Green was already a famous R&B singer. He had hit songs like “Let’s Stay Together,” “Love and Happiness,” and “Tired of Being Alone.”
Shirley had actually opened concerts for Al Green before, but they had never met personally. When they finally met at church, there was an immediate connection. They both loved gospel music and shared a strong faith in God.
Al Green invited Shirley to join his music group as a background singer. She also became involved in his church, the Full Gospel Tabernacle. Their friendship grew into love, and by 1977, they decided to get married.
The Marriage
On June 15, 1977, Shirley Kyles and Al Green got married. The wedding was very simple. It took place in a preacher’s living room in Memphis. There were no big decorations, no bridesmaids, and no large crowd. Just the bride, groom, preacher, and one witness. The whole ceremony lasted only about 10 minutes.
At first, the marriage seemed happy. Al Green said in an interview that year: “I love her. She is one of the most beautiful women I’ve ever met. She’s understanding, and she’s a business lady.”
During their marriage, Shirley and Al had three daughters:
- Alva Lei Green – Later became a doctor
- Rubi Renee Green – Lives a more private life
- Kora Kishé Green – Studies retail management
Shirley was a devoted mother who loved her children deeply. Even during difficult times, her children remained her top priority.
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The Difficult Times
Sadly, the marriage was not as happy as it looked from the outside. Behind closed doors, Shirley faced physical abuse. The problems started early in their marriage.
In 1978, less than one year after their wedding, Shirley filed for divorce for the first time. She said that Al Green had been physically cruel to her. But she went back to him, hoping things would get better. She stayed partly because of their children and partly because she felt ashamed about having another failed marriage.
The abuse continued. Shirley later testified in court that Al Green:
- Hit her with his hands and fists
- Kicked her
- Beat her with a boot when she was five months pregnant
- Hit her with a guitar
- Punched her in the face
These were terrible experiences that no person should ever have to face. The worst part was that Shirley felt trapped. She wanted to protect her children, and she worried about what people would think if she left.
In 1981, Shirley filed for divorce again. This time, she was determined to leave for good. Al Green at first denied the abuse, but later, under oath in court, he admitted that he had hit his wife. He claimed he only did it after she provoked him, but abuse is never acceptable regardless of the reason.
Finding the Courage to Leave
What finally gave Shirley the strength to leave completely? It was the story of another woman who faced abuse – Nicole Brown Simpson. Nicole was married to O.J. Simpson, and her story became very public in the 1990s.
When Shirley heard about Nicole’s experiences with domestic violence, something changed inside her. She realized she couldn’t stay silent anymore. She knew that by sharing her own story, she could help other women who were suffering in silence.
The divorce was finalized in February 1983. Shirley received a settlement of $432,800 for alimony and child support. Finally, after six years of marriage, she was free to rebuild her life.
Life After Divorce
After leaving Al Green, Shirley focused on healing and helping others. She didn’t let her painful experiences destroy her. Instead, she used them as a way to give strength to other people.
Shirley went back to school and earned important degrees:
- Christian Counseling degree from Trinity International University
- Theology degree from Trinity International University
- Public Relations and Communications degree from the University of Memphis
With this education, she became a counselor and advocate for victims of domestic abuse. She spoke publicly about her experiences to raise awareness. She wanted women to know that:
- They are not alone
- Abuse is never their fault
- It’s okay to leave an abusive relationship
- Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness
- Faith can help them through difficult times
Shirley worked in her community to support women’s shelters and programs that help abuse victims. She became a voice for those who couldn’t speak up for themselves.
Her Children’s Success
Despite the challenges of their childhood, Shirley’s three daughters grew up to be successful women:
Alva Green became a medical doctor. She works at UT Southwestern Medical Center, a well-respected hospital. Alva followed her mother’s example of service by helping people through medicine.
Rubi Green chose a more private life away from the public eye. She occasionally shares parts of her life on social media but mainly stays out of the spotlight.
Kora Green (also called Cora in some sources) studied at the College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sports Management. She’s interested in retail management and how businesses can better serve customers.
All three daughters speak lovingly about their mother. They remember her as strong, loving, and someone who taught them important values. Even though their parents’ marriage ended badly, Shirley made sure her children felt loved and supported.
Shirley’s Legacy
Shirley Kyles passed away on July 17, 2023, at the age of 74 in Mobile, Alabama. Her death was a loss to everyone who knew her and to the many people she had helped over the years.
What She Left Behind:
1. A Message of Hope Shirley showed that it’s possible to survive abuse and build a new life. Her story gives hope to anyone facing difficult circumstances.
2. Faith and Forgiveness Even after everything she experienced, Shirley said she still prayed for Al Green. She didn’t hold hatred in her heart. She showed that forgiveness is possible, even when someone has hurt you deeply.
3. Helping Others Through her advocacy work, Shirley touched countless lives. She spoke at churches, women’s groups, and community centers. Her message was always: “You can get through this. You deserve better. Don’t give up.”
4. Breaking Barriers As a female Colonel in the military, Shirley proved that women can succeed in any field. She opened doors for other women who wanted military careers.
5. Raising Strong Children Despite her struggles, Shirley raised three successful daughters who are making their own positive impact on the world.
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Important Lessons from Shirley’s Life
Shirley Kyles taught us many valuable lessons through her life:
It’s Never Too Late to Leave If you’re in a bad situation, you can always choose to leave and start fresh. Shirley filed for divorce twice before finally leaving for good. This shows that healing isn’t always a straight path, and that’s okay.
Your Past Doesn’t Define You Shirley didn’t let her painful marriage define who she was. She built a new identity as a counselor, advocate, and community leader.
Faith Gives Strength Shirley often said that her faith in God helped her survive the abuse and move forward. For people who believe in a higher power, faith can be a source of comfort during hard times.
Helping Others Heals You By sharing her story and helping other abuse victims, Shirley also healed herself. When we help others, we often help ourselves too.
You’re More Than Your Relationship Many people only knew Shirley as “Al Green’s wife,” but she was so much more. She was a Colonel, a singer, a mother, a counselor, and an advocate. We are all more than just our relationships.
Al Green Today
Al Green, now in his late 70s, continues to be remembered as one of the greatest soul singers in history. He has won 11 Grammy Awards and is in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He also became a pastor and focused more on gospel music in his later years.
Al Green has occasionally spoken about personal growth and seeking forgiveness, though he rarely discusses specific incidents from his marriage. He has expressed general remorse for past actions.
Shirley said she forgave him and still prayed for him, showing her incredible capacity for grace and forgiveness.
Why Shirley’s Story Matters Today
Domestic violence is still a serious problem that affects millions of people around the world. Many victims feel scared to speak up or leave their abusers. They might worry about:
- What people will think
- How they’ll support themselves financially
- Losing their children
- Not being believed
- Retaliation from their abuser
Shirley’s story reminds us that:
- Abuse happens in all kinds of families, even famous ones
- Speaking up is brave and important
- Leaving an abusive relationship is possible
- Life can be good again after abuse
- Victims need support, not judgment
Her courage in sharing her story helped break the silence around domestic violence, especially within religious and African American communities where such topics were often kept private.
Resources for Help
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please remember:
- You are not alone
- It’s not your fault
- Help is available
- You deserve to be safe and treated with respect
Many countries have hotlines and shelters for people escaping abuse. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, just like Shirley showed.
Final Thoughts
Shirley Kyles lived a remarkable life. She served her country as a military officer, shared her musical gifts, raised three daughters, and dedicated her later years to helping abuse survivors.
While many people will always remember her as Al Green’s ex-wife, her true legacy is much bigger than that. She was a woman of courage, faith, and compassion who turned her pain into purpose.
Her story reminds us that we all have the power to overcome difficult circumstances and create positive change in the world. Even when life is hard, we can choose hope, healing, and helping others.
Shirley Kyles may be gone, but her impact lives on through her daughters, the people she helped, and everyone who learns from her story. She showed us that true strength comes not from never falling down, but from getting back up and then helping others do the same.
Rest in peace, Shirley Kyles. Your courage will not be forgotten.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who was Shirley Kyles?
Shirley Kyles was the ex-wife of famous soul singer Al Green. She was also a retired Colonel in the U.S. military, a gospel singer, and an advocate who helped victims of domestic abuse. She lived from 1948 to 2023.
2. How long was Shirley Kyles married to Al Green?
Shirley and Al Green were married for about six years, from June 1977 to February 1983. During this time, they had three daughters together.
3. Did Shirley Kyles and Al Green have children?
Yes, they had three daughters: Alva Lei Green (who became a doctor), Rubi Renee Green, and Kora Kishé Green (who studies retail management).
4. Why did Shirley Kyles divorce Al Green?
Shirley divorced Al Green because of physical abuse that happened throughout their marriage. She filed for divorce twice (in 1978 and 1981) before the divorce was finally completed in 1983.
5. What did Shirley Kyles do after her divorce?
After her divorce, Shirley went back to school and earned degrees in Christian Counseling, Theology, and Public Relations. She became an advocate for domestic violence victims and worked to help other women escape abusive relationships.
6. What was Shirley Kyles’ military career like?
Shirley served in the United States Army and rose to the rank of Colonel. She was a combat veteran and a respected leader who broke barriers for African American women in the military.
7. When did Shirley Kyles die?
Shirley Kyles passed away on July 17, 2023, at the age of 74 in Mobile, Alabama.
8. Was Shirley Kyles the woman who attacked Al Green with hot grits?
No, that was a different person. Mary Woodson attacked Al Green with hot grits in 1974, three years before he married Shirley. This incident is often confused with Shirley’s story, but they are two completely different women.
9. What inspired Shirley Kyles to speak publicly about abuse?
Shirley was inspired to share her story after hearing about Nicole Brown Simpson, who also suffered domestic abuse. Nicole’s story gave Shirley the courage to speak up and help other women in similar situations.
10. What is Shirley Kyles’ legacy?
Shirley’s legacy includes her military service, her work helping domestic violence survivors, raising three successful daughters, and showing that it’s possible to rebuild your life after trauma. She is remembered for her courage, faith, and dedication to helping others.
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