Harriett “Tina” was a caring wife, mother, grandmother, musician, teacher and friend. She left this world suddenly on May 19, 2023 at the age 69.
She was born to John and Mabel Shorts on May 10, 1954. She started playing the piano at the age of 7 at Dinkins School of music where she learned to play the pipe organ. She loved music and played many other instruments including clarinet and violin. After graduating from high school, from Trinity Lutheran Academy, she attended Stillman College in 1972 as an English and Music major where she met her college sweetheart, Rufus King, Jr. Together, they have 3 children: Ebonique, Marie and Stanley and she loved her bonus daughter Rachel. While at Stillman, she became a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. She was a member of the world renown Stillman College Choir as an alto. Her favorite songs to perform were any of Moses Hogan’s. Tina graduated in 1976.
Later she attained a Masters in Music Education from Livingston University.
She served as musician for Green Street Baptist Church, West Trinity Baptist Church, and Calvary Missionary Baptist Church-25 years and Northern Heights Presbyterian Church. As a teacher in Wilcox County, Dallas County, Selma City Schools, she served as a music teacher, band instructor and substitute teacher. Later she taught for Wallace Community College as an instructor for the GED program.
Harriett taught numerous students how to play the piano, loved spending time with her children and grandkids, and helping others in the community. She filled her home and many hearts with beautiful music that will last in our memories forever.
Homegoing celebration will be held Tuesday, May 30, 2023 11AM at Calvary Missionary Baptist Church. Interment will immediately follow in New Bethel Cemetery in Orrville, AL. The compassionate staff and management at Ashley’s JH Williams extends our heartfelt condolences and prayers to the entire King, Lee and Roberts families.
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