Shirley Kyles is best known as the ex-wife of the legendary singer Al Green, but her story goes far beyond their troubled marriage. She was a strong woman, a talented singer, and a survivor who used her experiences to help others. While many recognize her because of her connection to Al Green, few know about her personal struggles, achievements, and the impact she had on people’s lives.
Her journey was not easy. She faced love, heartbreak, and years of abuse, yet she found the strength to leave and rebuild her life. Shirley’s story is both heartbreaking and inspiring, showing how a woman can overcome even the darkest moments. Let’s take a deeper look into who she was, her life with Al Green, and her incredible journey of resilience.
Who Was Shirley Kyles?
Shirley Kyles was more than just the ex-wife of a famous musician. She was a devoted mother, a talented singer, and a woman of faith. Born on July 28, 1948, in Oregon, USA, she grew up in a Christian home where faith was very important. Her father, Larry Samuel Focht, was a Baptist preacher, which meant religion played a big role in her upbringing.
Although she became known because of her relationship with Al Green, Shirley had her own identity and talents. She was a background singer in Al Green’s music group, supporting him both on and off stage. But life in the spotlight was not always glamorous, and Shirley’s journey took many unexpected turns.
Despite the challenges she faced, Shirley never let her struggles define her. She was a fighter, a survivor, and a woman who found the strength to stand up for herself. Her life story is one of pain, courage, and transformation.
Early Life & Family
Shirley was raised in Chicago, where her family followed strong Christian values. Growing up as the daughter of a preacher, she was taught the importance of faith, kindness, and resilience. These values shaped the person she became and helped her navigate the tough times ahead.
Not much is publicly known about her childhood, as she always kept that part of her life private. However, it’s clear that music and religion played a big role in her early years. She had a passion for singing and eventually used her voice in Al Green’s musical group.
Before meeting Al Green, Shirley was just a young woman with dreams and a love for music. She never imagined that she would one day be part of the life of one of the most famous soul singers in history.
Shirley’s Career & Life Beyond Al Green
Many people only associate Shirley with Al Green, but she had a career and a life of her own. She was a talented singer who performed with Al Green’s group, adding her voice to his gospel and soul music.
But Shirley’s ambitions didn’t stop there. She also had a military career, serving in the U.S. Army, where she retired as a Colonel. She was a combat veteran, proving that she was not just strong in spirit, but also in action.
After her divorce, Shirley continued to grow. She furthered her education, earning degrees in Christian Counseling and Public Relations. She became an advocate for domestic abuse survivors, using her painful experiences to help others find their strength.
How Shirley Met Al Green
Shirley and Al Green met in 1976 at a Baptist church in Memphis. She had previously opened for two of his concerts, but their paths never crossed until that day. Their connection was almost instant, as they shared a deep love for music and faith.
Al Green was already a well-known musician at the time, but Shirley wasn’t drawn to his fame—she was drawn to his passion for gospel music and his charm. They spent time together, singing and praying, forming a bond that seemed unbreakable at first.
Soon, Shirley became a background singer in Al Green’s music group. She traveled with him, performed alongside him, and became a big part of his life. But their love story would take a dark turn in the years to come.
Marriage to Al Green & Struggles Behind the Scenes
Shirley and Al Green got married in June 1977, but their wedding was far from a grand affair. It was a simple 10-minute ceremony in a preacher’s living room. It seemed like a small but meaningful beginning, but things quickly changed.
Their marriage was filled with arguments, control issues, and emotional distance. Al Green’s growing fame put pressure on their relationship, and Shirley began to see a different side of him. Things got worse when he started physically abusing her, turning their home into a place of fear.
Despite the pain, Shirley tried to make the marriage work. She left him twice—once in 1978 and again in 1981—but both times, she returned because of their children and her fear of judgment from others.
The Breaking Point & Divorce
By 1983, Shirley had reached her limit. She had endured years of abuse, but after finding inspiration from other survivors, she finally decided to leave for good.
She filed for divorce in 1983, ending their six-year marriage. It wasn’t an easy decision, but Shirley knew that she needed to protect herself and her children.
Years later, Al Green admitted to abusing her, though he claimed it only happened when he was “provoked.” But for Shirley, the damage had been done, and she was ready to move forward with her life.
Shirley’s Children & Their Lives Today
Shirley and Al Green had three daughters together:
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Alva Green became a doctor and medical professional.
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Rubi Green stays active on social media, though little is known about her private life.
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Cora Green is currently studying Retail Management.
Despite their parents’ rocky relationship, Shirley did her best to give them a stable and loving home. She wanted them to grow up strong, independent, and free from the pain she had endured.
Life After Divorce & Helping Others
After leaving Al Green, Shirley didn’t just disappear—she became a voice for domestic abuse victims. She pursued higher education, earning degrees in Christian Counseling and Public Relations.
She used her own painful experiences to guide other women who were struggling in abusive relationships. She spoke openly about the importance of leaving toxic situations and encouraged women to stand up for themselves.
Despite everything, Shirley never held hatred toward Al Green. She continued to pray for him and focused on healing herself.
Shirley Kyles’ Passing & Legacy
Shirley passed away on July 17, 2023, in Mobile, Alabama, at the age of 74. Her death marked the end of a life filled with struggles, love, and incredible resilience.
Even though she is gone, her story continues to inspire. She proved that no matter how difficult life gets, there is always a way to rebuild and find happiness again.
Final Thoughts
Shirley Kyles’ life was filled with love, heartbreak, and strength. She was a woman who faced abuse, walked away, and used her story to help others. Her journey reminds us that no one should tolerate abuse, and that it’s never too late to start over.
Her legacy lives on through her children, her work, and the people she inspired. Her story is not just about her past—it’s about hope, courage, and the power of moving forward.
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