Eva Shirley graced this world on March 9, 1940 in the parish of St. Ann, Jamaica to her parents Ellis and Iris Shirley. Her beautiful spirit as a child was warm and loving. She was always eager to help others, did well in school and served God. Eva grew up surrounded by a large number of cousins, and this laid the foundation for her love of family and to cherish others.

Eva completed her studies in Jamaica at the age of 19 and had her first child, Wycliffe. With encouragement of her parents, Eva left her firstborn to be raised by them while went to England to make a life for herself. Living with Auntie White in London, she began her career as a Nursing Assistant at Ada Salter London Borough of Southwark Social Services where her natural ability to care for others continued to shine through. Eva's work ethic was incredulous—working long hours and taking on private care positions.

She developed wonderful relationships with family and friends in the U.K. At the age of 20, Eva married Kenneth Thomas with whom she had her first child and then they went on to have three more children: Verona, Henry Dean and Melissa. Eva's young adult life was strenuous—balancing work and family life, but her love always prevailed for family.

Eva had an amazing sense of humor and her personality was captivating. Her quick wit was contagious and enduring to say the least! Her friendships were meaningful, rich and loving. Eva had a great listening ear and she gave such impactful advice—a sister, friend and mother figure to many. Everyone with whom Eva engaged with had a true connection with her.

A new chapter for Eva began at the age of 40 when her marriage ended. It was a turning point: she migrated to the United States where she continued her career as a Certified Nurse's Aide. Eva worked at Morningside House and Wayne Nursing Home until her retirement. During this chapter, Eva remarried Audley McLean and they had a blended family, including sons Colin and Charles who were dear to her heart. Family gatherings and outings were such fun memories. Her love of cooking and baking was such a strong footprint during these times

Eva's most significant role in her life was being a mom. This was Eva's foundation, her compass in life, and her heartbeat was motherhood. She was a loving, protective, and nurturing mom. Her love for her children was overwhelming with love and compassion.

In 2018, moving to Georgia was Eva's final chapter in her life to live with her daughter Melissa and her family. Eva welcomed a life she never thought imaginable: going to the mall again, dining at restaurants, visits to the Georgia Aquarium and many more adventures in her personalized minivan. Most importantly, she got to watch her grandchildren, Timmy and Sophia, grow. She watched her daughter and son-in-law, Tim, raise their family and continue to support each other as they navigated their newest chapter of their life as well. Eva had a special bond with Tim and her admiration for him was so heartfelt. They spent a great deal of time together. In this chapter, Eva got used to having dogs around and she enjoyed their company. Not everything changed: she continued watching her daily soaps. She was an avid basketball fan and was knowledgeable of players and their stats. Her unwavering love for Jamaica and her stories of her past, especially of her mother, would captivate all who would listen. Family members and friends, both old and new, continued to visit her and relive old times. This gave her much happiness. She also spent countless hours checking in with all her loved ones on the phone.

Eva celebrated her 80th birthday surrounded by her loved ones, an honor no one would miss. To love Eva was to be loved by her, what a blessing! Eva's health took a turn after that birthday. Trips to doctors and hospital admissions became more frequent. Her ability to care and advocate for herself became much more difficult.

In early 2023, Eva was diagnosed with uterine cancer. Her tenacity to fight for life outweighed her fear. Eva was courageous and strong throughout her treatment, never wavering or fearing defeat. She was a resilient and amazing woman who inspired us with her will to live.
On December 30, 2023, at the age of 83 in McDonough, GA after a valiant battle against her health challenges, Eva McLean, surrounded by her family, peacefully passed away to be with the Lord.

Miss Eva was preceded in death by her father, Ellis Shirley, and her mother, Iris Shirley. She is survived by her brother: Hopeton Shirley; children: Wycliffe Thomas (wife Althea Thomas), Verona Thomas, Dean Thomas and Melissa Belmar (husband Timothy Belmar); grandchildren: Dean Thomas, Jr., Danielle-Ann Thomas, Derrell Thomas, Symone Thomas, Timothy Belmar, Jr. and Sophia Belmar; one great granddaughter, Michaela Harvey-Thomas; and stepsons: Colin McLean and Charles McLean, as well as other loving family members and friends.