CSU mourns Shirley Whitfield, longtime supporter 

Charleston Southern University is deeply saddened by the death of Shirley Davis Whitfield on December 24, 2024, in Charleston. She was 94 years old when she made her journey to Heaven to meet our Savior. She is survived by her two sons, Bill (Marcy) and Tim (Alina), as well as four grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. 

She and her husband, the late W. Floyd Whitfield, were longtime supporters of the university. Their many contributions include the establishment of the Whitfield Endowed Scholarship, funding for the Whitfield Stadium Center, Whitfield Center for Christian Leadership, Singleton Baseball Complex, Health Science building, and the future convocation center. Their steadfast support has helped countless students pursue their passions and earn a degree with strong biblical foundation.  

“Shirley Whitfield, and her beloved Floyd, were shining examples of living out faith in service to others,” said CSU President, B. Keith Faulkner. “Their legacy lives on at the University through the many projects the Whitfield family supported. Shirley’s Christian spirit permeated every room she entered, and her quick wit and unmatched wisdom made her a remarkable conversationalist and counselor. But it was her love for students that animated her generous support, and she enjoyed interacting with CSU students every chance she could.” 

A devoted woman of God, Mrs. Whitfield was passionate about her family, ministry, and CSU. She was active with the CSU Women’s Council where she raised funds for student scholarships and served as president of the organization. She was a life member of the President’s Club and a member of the Legacy Society. Due to her years of influence on this campus, Charleston Southern awarded her the Distinguished Service Award in 2009 and presented her with an Honorary Doctor of Public Service in 2022. 

The Whitfield’s son Tim and his wife Alina are continuing the legacy of their family’s involvement and engagement with Charleston Southern. Tim is serving on his second term on the CSU Board of Trustees, and Alina is active with the CSU Women’s Council and the annual fundraising auction for student scholarships.  

Shirley’s family, in a moving tribute to their mother and grandmother, said that Shirley was unashamedly and boldly a Christ follower, and she frequently proclaimed how Jesus blessed her life. Her life was filled with joy, and music was a love that infused her sweet soul for as long as anyone can remember. Loving others was her special gift, and her godly influence will remain with the lives she touched forever.  

President Emeritus Dr. Jairy Hunter, said, “Shirley Whitfield has been a dear friend of the university. She provided exemplary leadership, financial support, and served the university in many capacities.” 

A funeral service was held for Mrs. Whitfield on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at Grace on the Ashley Baptist Church with interment at Live Oak Memorial Gardens. The family requested that memorials be made to the CSU Student Scholarship Fund or to Grace on the Ashley Whitfield Family Scholarship Fund.

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