Shirley Kyles was more than just a name linked to fame. She was the woman who married soul music legend Al Green — but her life was filled with both pain and strength. Many people know her because of her famous ex-husband. But there’s so much more to her story.
This article will take you through the real life of Shirley Kyles. You’ll learn about her early days, how she met Al Green, their marriage, the hurt she faced, and the strength she found later. Her journey is about courage, healing, and finding peace. Let’s begin.
Shirley Anne Watts Kyles Green Profile Summary
| Attributes | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Shirley Anne Watts Kyles Green |
| Date of Birth | July 28, 1948 |
| Place of Birth | Oregon, USA |
| Date of Death | July 17, 2023 |
| Age at Death | 74 years old |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African American |
| Religion | Christian |
| Known For | Ex-wife of Al Green |
| Marriage Years | 1977 – 1983 |
| Children (with Al Green) | Alva Green, Rubi Green, Kora Green |
| Education | Degrees in Theology & Communications |
| Career | Background singer, gospel artist, speaker |
| Life Today | Passed away peacefully in 2023 |
Who Was Shirley Kyles?
Shirley Kyles was the ex-wife of soul singer Al Green, but she was much more than that. She was a mother, singer, student, and a strong woman who faced hard times but never gave up.
Many people knew her because of her marriage to Al Green. But her own life story was full of faith, learning, and helping others. She used her pain to support women who went through the same things she did.
Shirley showed that even quiet people can be very strong inside. Her life was full of lessons about courage, healing, and standing up for yourself.
Early Life and Childhood
Shirley Anne Watts Kyles Green was born on July 28, 1948, in Oregon, USA. She grew up in a Christian home. Her father was a Baptist preacher in Chicago. Faith was a big part of her early life.
As a young girl, Shirley learned about kindness, family values, and strength. She loved singing and always believed in helping others. These early lessons would later help her face some very hard times.
How She Met Al Green
Shirley first met Al Green in 1976 at a Baptist church in Memphis. Before that, she had opened for two of his concerts. But they never crossed paths because she always left early, especially when they started playing music she didn’t like.
When they finally met at church, something clicked. Al Green invited her to join his music group as a background singer. Soon, she also became active in his church, the Full Gospel Tabernacle Church. They started spending more time together, and a bond slowly began to grow.
Quick Wedding and Married Life
Their relationship moved fast. Just two months after Shirley left the music group, Al showed up at her door with a diamond ring. He proposed, and they got married just 10 minutes later in a preacher’s living room. Shirley wore a simple white dress.
At first, Shirley thought she had found something good. Al was kind and respectful. They would sit together, talk, watch TV, and share sweet little moments. Everything seemed gentle and full of hope in the beginning.
Their Children and Family Life
Shirley became pregnant soon after their wedding. Sadly, she lost the baby at eight weeks and went to Chicago to heal with her sister. It was a painful time for her.
But not long after, she became pregnant again and gave birth to their first daughter. In total, Shirley and Al Green had three daughters: Alva, Rubi, and Kora Green. Shirley also had two children from a previous marriage. She was a loving mother who always put her kids first.
Hard Times: Abuse and Pain
Behind the scenes, things were not okay. Shirley later shared that Al Green abused her during their marriage. At first, she believed him when he said he would change. She wanted to stay for her children. She didn’t want another failed marriage.
But the abuse continued. There were many breakups and makeups. Shirley said she was afraid, but she kept hoping things would get better. She didn’t want her kids to grow up without a father.
In later years, Shirley spoke openly about what she went through. She said that staying in a bad marriage “for the kids” is not a good reason. She wanted others to know — it’s okay to walk away for your own safety and peace.
The Grits Incident and Public Attention
During their rocky marriage, a strange and famous moment happened in Al Green’s life. A woman threw hot grits on him, and the story was all over the news. This event didn’t involve Shirley, but it added more stress to their personal life.
The media started watching them more closely. Shirley’s private pain was now mixed with public attention. It was hard to deal with everything at once — her marriage, her safety, her children, and now the press.
Leaving Al Green and Divorce
In 1978, things got worse. Shirley filed for divorce. But like before, they got back together again. Al Green even told the media, “Shirley can’t stay away from Al, and Al can’t stay away from Shirley.” It was a confusing and painful time.
In 1981, Shirley filed for divorce again. This time, she was stronger. She knew she had to think about herself and her children. The divorce was final in 1983. It was the end of a long, hard chapter in her life.
Her New Life and Personal Growth
After the divorce, Shirley began a new journey. She worked hard to rebuild her life. She didn’t just sit still. She chose to learn, grow, and heal.
Shirley went back to school. She earned a degree in Christian Counseling and Theology from Trinity International University. She also studied Public Relations and Communications at the University of Memphis. Her goal was to help others, not just herself.
Helping Others and Community Work
Shirley didn’t keep her story to herself. She spoke up to help others. She started talking more after learning about the abuse Nicole Brown Simpson had suffered. That story gave Shirley the push she needed to share her own pain.
She became a voice for women who were hurt at home. She also spoke to men who had caused harm, helping them understand the damage abuse can do. Shirley wanted healing for everyone, not just for herself.
A Quiet and Peaceful Life
In her later years, Shirley lived a quiet and simple life. She stayed away from the media. She focused on peace, faith, and family. She kept singing gospel music and stayed active in her community.
Even after everything, Shirley said she did not hate Al Green. She prayed for him and wanted peace. Al also said kind things about her later in life. They no longer had a hateful bond. They had both moved on in their own ways.
Her Legacy and What We Learn
Shirley Kyles left behind a strong message. Her life taught people that it’s okay to leave a bad situation. It’s okay to start again. She showed how you can take your pain and use it to help others.
Her work in the community made a quiet, but strong impact. She didn’t need to be famous to make a difference. Her story inspired many women who needed hope and strength.
Final Thoughts
Shirley Kyles passed away on July 17, 2023, at the age of 74. She lived a full life — one filled with love, pain, growth, and healing. But most of all, she lived it with faith and courage.
Today, we remember Shirley not just as Al Green’s ex-wife, but as a brave woman who stood up, healed, and helped others do the same. Her story will always be a light for those looking for strength after dark times.
(FAQs)
What happened between Shirley Kyles and Al Green?
Shirley was married to Al Green, but the marriage had many problems. She faced physical abuse and filed for divorce twice before finally leaving him in 1983.
How many children did Shirley Kyles have?
Shirley had three daughters with Al Green — Alva, Rubi, and Kora. She also had two children from her first marriage.
Did Shirley Kyles really forgive Al Green?
Yes. Even after all the pain, Shirley said she did not hate Al Green. She prayed for him and said she had moved on with peace in her heart.
What did Shirley Kyles do after the divorce?
She went back to school, earned college degrees, and became a speaker and helper for abuse survivors. She lived a quiet but meaningful life.
When did Shirley Kyles die, and how old was she?
Shirley Kyles passed away on July 17, 2023, just 11 days before her 75th birthday.
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