Shirley Hamilton - Online Memorial Website

18 years ago, I remember being excited when Shirley 'signed' me...when I mentioned it to My Mother, her response was "Shirley?...She was MY 1st agent in 1962"  (My Mother was quite-the-beauty, a Spokes-Model for Kodak and worked with Doris Day, Bob Hope and a Slew of other Big Shots 'Back in the Day'). When I brought it up, to Shirley, she remembered most of the jobs she sent her on, and got a Huge kick out of it.
 I've told that story, countless times, over the years, and it's a Very Proud point of my Life.
I got into this,'Business', by accident...and Shirley was the One that made me Believe...
36 commercials and 12 films later, I now live, & work, in Los Angeles...persuing what She told me I should...
For that, I will Always owe a Great bit of Gratitude!
 Shirley raised two daughters (Lynne & Laurie), that have 'stepped in', greatly, to the,considerably, Large Shoes that Shirley wore...
 I'm Quite Sure that Shirley is VERY PROUD of how You're 'Carrying On' what She created...Her Legacy is Now Yours.
 I've always considered You Family...and Always Will...Please accept My Heartfelt, and Sincere, Condolences.
 90 years is a 'Helluva Run'...If we can, all, live half the life that Shirley did...we'll be pleased with 'Our Run'.
 I look forward to having a Martini with That Lady sometime later...
 
Rest Well My Dear,
You were One of a Kind!

 Love,
  Brad Nelson

Shirley always had a kind word for her talent.  She made everyone individually feel like "a star".  I remember seeing her just a few years ago at one of the agency parties thrown in her honor.  There was a huge line of people waiting to talk to her.  She took her time with each person.  Even casting folks were there.  She told me that I would do very well in the business..... made me feel like a million bucks!  I loved it when she would call me personally to tell me about an audition or job.  She was truly an inspiration and role model in our community.  I will miss her.

In 1959, about to enter Northwestern University, I was lucky enough to be introduced to gorgeous Shirley. She quickly became my idol, I was in awe!  She got me jobs, great jobs, and always stressed a strong committment to staying in college.  Ofcourse, an audition was mandatory, test or no test!.  Shirley became my mentor, even making certain, I met a young director at an audition for a Marlburo commercial.  She insisted, "he was just right for you."  Got the job, made some bucks, and best of all, four years later, married the handsome director.  That was nearly forty-eight years ago. Shirley always kew best!  My husband, Gerry Rogers, and I adored her talent, her smile, her glowing personality,  her sense of humor, and her match making capabilities. Thank you, beautiful Shirley!  We did love you so, Karen Olsen Rogers