Biography

After sending a tape cassette of her funniest, most clever material to Flip Wilson, she received the encouragement and motivation to pursue her dream of becoming a comedy performer.

The Monday after Hemphill died, Rosie O'Donnell praised her on her show. She stated that Shirley was the first celebrity she met when she first began stand-up comedy and credits Shirley with helping her land her first paying job, by telling the managers to put Rosie on stage, at a club where Shirley was also performing. Rosie also did a small dedication to Shirley on her show.

When she relocated to Los Angeles in 1973, she split her time between a variety of waitress jobs and polishing her act at comedy clubs.

Won an athletic scholarship to Morristown College, graduating with an AA (Physical Education), in 1967.

Has one brother: William.